Why read about science when you can just do it? STEM Scouts, a new extra-curricular program for students in the area, re-imagines creative ways to learn about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Students can interact with professionals in weekly hands-on lab sessions and discover new things in a fast-paced, thought-provoking, and fun way. The STEM Scouts provides great learning opportunities and experiences for the youth in the area.

Recently, Mr. Tom Zamzow, Antigo High School Principal, and Mr. Tim Krueger from the Antigo High School Fab Lab recently opened their doors to a local group of elementary STEM Scouts. Lab Manager Andy Bauknecht from Rexnord-Merit Gear worked with those students to laser engrave their own custom design on wood coasters. Krueger also instructed them on proper use and safety of the equipment.

The Elementary STEM Scouts (Grades 3-5) meet from 6pm-7:30pm Thursday nights, and meetings are hosted by NTC-Antigo. Any that wish to join the group are welcome to attend. The group meets at the Tech, 312 Forrest Ave, Antigo, in room T131.

A Middle School STEM Scout program (Grades 6-8) started on February 27 and any are welcome that may be interested in joining. The Middle School STEM Scout program will be held Tuesday nights from 6pm to 7:30pm. This group also meets at the Tech, in room T124.

Both labs are managed by engineers from local companies, including Rexnord-Merit Gear, Hydratight, and Volm Companies, who are volunteering their time to allow local students access to these STEM learning activities and experiments.

For more information, visit https://stemscouts.org or e-mail Andy Bauknecht at andy.bauknecht@rexnord.com or contact Amanda Flannery at 715-355-1450 or amanda.flannery@samoset.org.