STEM education in Oklahoma got a boost this week from Tinker Air Force Base and Rose State College in Midwest City.
The two donated a 3D printer from Tinker’s REACT Lab and a ceremonial signing was originally planned for Tuesday afternoon but was postponed to a later date to be announced soon.
Rose State and the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex at the Air Base have a strategic alliance and made the donation of the Project860 3D printer to demonstrate their shared commitment to progress STEM education in the state.
Other organizations, including some oil and gas firms, have contributed in the past to STEM education programs which focus on improvement of educational efforts in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Rose State College Vice President of Academic Affairs, Travis Hurst called it a step toward further expanding access to STEM education.
“The 3D printer will significantly contribute to our workforce development programs, benefitting both our students and the broader community,” he said.
Col. Brian Moore, Commander of the OC-ALC Tinker AFB said the donation will help students gain industry-relevant skills and also support high-level additive manufacturing instruction.
“We’re glad to partner with Rose State College to inspire the future STEM workforce”.
The printer allows the exploration of intricate and geometrically complex structures, as well as its compatibility with various materials, including metals, ceramics, and polymers, giving students a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing across different industries.
