A local educator recently shadowed two Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) engineers to obtain a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education Endorsement that will help bridge the gap between her students’ high school classes and potential engineering careers at the Savannah River Site (SRS).

Carla Biley, who teaches biology and forensics at Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School (RCTCM), will use the endorsement from Augusta University to open the door to new classes at RCTCM. The STEM Education Endorsement focuses on effective ways to integrate content, teach productive collaboration skills and use inquiry-based approaches to solve problems. The two-day shadowing assignment with SRNS engineers was the final step in earning this endorsement.

“Connecting with local educators is crucial in impacting the next generation
of future engineers,” said Eric Johnson, manager, SRNS Fire Protection
Engineering (FPE). “A well-rounded engineer must not only be proficient in
performing technical analysis, but also in effective communication, technical
writing and working outside of their discipline. Shadowing opportunities help us provide information directly to instructors to take back to the classroom,” said Johnson.

“This experience added extremely valuable skills to my teaching methods,” said Biley. “Not only will I be able to introduce new classes at our school, but I can implement more problem-based learning techniques that I witnessed from SRNS engineers over the last two days.”

Biley was able to get a glimpse into Process Controls & Automation Engineering (PC&AE) and FPE at the Site. The enrichment opportunity focused on the recommended courses for students interested in engineering, the school-to-work transition and the ways to bring these opportunities into the high school curriculum.

While shadowing the day-to-day operations of PC&AE, hosted by SRNS engineer Lindsay Minnick, Biley was able to witness the computer modification tracker that documents any changes and upgrades to K and L Areas as well as the program development center in C Area. She also learned how these departments provide safe, secure and quality products in support of SRS missions.

“I’d love to see Ms. Biley implement more critical thinking and hands-on work in her classes after this experience,” said Minnick. “Being an engineer means being a top-notch problem solver, sometimes thinking backwards and creating innovative solutions. Educators are key in guiding students to the one-of-a-kind engineering internships and apprenticeships at the Site.”

SRNS Education Outreach Program Specialist Cindy Hewitt was pleased to provide this one-on-one opportunity for Ms. Biley to shadow and connect with a PC&AE and FPE.

“With this new educational license, Ms. Biley can motivate and guide her students when they are making their most critical career decisions,” said Hewitt. “SRS proves to be a viable option for employment for students interested in STEM careers.”