WATERVILLE, MAINE, February 2018 — To keep up with the changing global economy, and satisfy Maine’s urgent need to create a technically capable workforce, we need to offer new approaches to hands on STEAM learning. An effective way to accomplish this objective is to continue to expand the use of three-dimensional (3D) printing and design in Maine’s K-12 schools, which has grown rapidly over the past few years.
Come learn how 3D printing and design can help to meet STEAM learning targets at the first annual 3D Printing Expo to be held on April 27 at Thomas College. This event, sponsored by the Thomas College Center for Innovation in Education, is open to Maine educators, technology directors, school librarians and administrators engaged in or interested in expanding the use of 3D printing and design. Registration is available online at https://wwwold.thomas.edu/academics/cie/3dexpo/ .
Participants will have the opportunity to share success stories and challenges related to 3D printing and design. In addition, participants and presenters will share resources and ideas for teachers and schools interested in implementing 3D printing and designing.
“We are very excited to provide a venue for the many early adopters of 3D printing and design to connect, share best practices, and learn from each other,” said Thomas College education professor Dr. Kate Cook Whitt. “In addition, this Expo serves as an opportunity to engage teachers and schools who are new to 3D printing and design.”
“For many schools in Maine with limited budget and resources, 3D design and printing has proven to be a game changer,” said David Perloff, Executive Director of the Perloff Family Foundation. “This conference is a unique opportunity for educators to share their successes, identify challenges and chart a path for further adoption.”
The day will consist of presentations made by exemplar schools and districts engaged in 3D printing and design.
About Thomas College: Founded in 1894, Thomas College offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in programs ranging from business, entrepreneurship, and technology to education, criminal justice, and psychology. Its Guaranteed Job Program, the first of its kind in the nation, is built on students’ academic, career, and leadership preparation. Thomas is also home to the Harold Alfond Institute for Business Innovation and the Center for Innovation in Education. Money Magazine recently ranked Thomas 23rd in the Country for adding the most value to their degrees, and data reported by the New York Times ranks Thomas in the top 15 percent of all college and universities in the U.S. for upward mobility of its graduates. For more information, visit wwwold.thomas.edu or contact MacKenzie Riley at [email protected] or 207-859-1313.