LLNL summer programs: inspiring future opportunities for students

This summer, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) hosted several science education programs that provided students with hands-on experience related to several LLNL research themes. The science education offerings for this summer included three standout programs: STEM with Phones, the Biotech Summer Experience and the Manufacturing Workshop.

The Manufacturing Workshop

The Manufacturing Workshop is an engaging three-day program designed for high school students aged 16-18. In this program, students had the opportunity to explore the world of design and creation through 3D printing techniques. The students not only developed their skills in object fabrication but also gained valuable insights into career opportunities within the manufacturing sector.

Jason Carroll, LLNL’s main bay machine shop supervisor, led the students on a tour of the facility, highlighting the unique career opportunities available in the field. "It's incredibly rewarding to connect with those who are eager to learn," he said.

Additionally, they learned about LLNL's Machinist Apprenticeship Program, a comprehensive four-year California-certified initiative that provides paid education and hands-on training in the machine-tool trade.

With 22 years of experience at the Lab and five years in the Machinist Apprenticeship Program, Carroll reflects on the incredible journey of witnessing high school students spark their fascination by participating in the manufacturing workshop.

“It’s truly inspiring to see these students not only pursue their passions but also transition into the Machinist Apprenticeship Program, ultimately embarking on fulfilling careers at the Lab,” Carroll said.

As interest in the apprenticeship program grows, schools are increasingly acknowledging the rising demand for technical careers. This program offers students invaluable exposure to the field, igniting their curiosity and passion.

“If you enjoy working with your hands, tinkering, and figuring out how things work, this could be the perfect career path for you,” Carroll said. “It’s all about problem-solving and creating things that others might think are impossible. Just remember: you can’t be afraid to get your hands dirty.”

STEM with Phones

STEM with Phones is a week-long workshop created to enhance high school students’ critical thinking and decision-making skills with the use of smartphones. Smartphones are remarkably complex and powerful tools that offer an exciting, hands-on way to observe fundamental principles of physics and engineering in action.

Throughout the week, students learned to utilize the sensing and computing capabilities that drive our everyday devices. They explored topics like using smartphones’ gravity and motion sensors to monitor cardiac function, understanding how acoustic analysis facilitates voice recognition and investigating the role of magnetism in data storage and more.

The workshop, envisioned and run by Dave Rakestraw in the Science Education program, introduced students to a range of STEM topics, with many exploring new concepts for the first time. The students valued how the experiments they conducted were directly linked to real-world applications broadening their perspective on the relevance of STEM in everyday life.

One student said: “Participating in the STEM with Phones workshop has been an incredible experience for me — it’s deepened my understanding of the physics and science that explain how the world works. All of the activities have been hands-on and engaging, unlike anything I’ve experienced before.”

Although the students were introduced to challenging topics, they appreciated how comprehensible the teaching style was.

Another student said: “I would wholeheartedly recommend this program; the learning approach is unique, but I think that’s a positive aspect. The modern teaching methods and tools we’re using enhanced our understanding and engagement.”

Many found the Lab tour to be a quite memorable part of the program, specifically touring the National Ignition Facility (NIF).

Another student said: “The NIF tour blew my mind; I was truly amazed to stand in a place that has made scientific history.”

The Biotech Summer Experience

The Biotech Summer Experience is a two-week program designed to provide high school students with an immersive introduction to molecular biology and bioinformatics research. This initiative is offered in partnership with the Wakman Student Scholar Program at Rutgers University. During the program, the students practiced essential laboratory techniques, including PCR (polymerase chain reaction), restriction digests and gel electrophoresis to isolate and analyze the DNA of Landoltia punctata (duckweed).

Throughout the program, students conducted various labs. Erin McKay and Elizabeth Lopez, local high school teachers and part-time LLNL employees, provided clear and insightful explanations on the lab processes.

Students also analyzed gene sequences with the same bioinformatic tools used by scientists worldwide. Their DNA sequences were submitted for publication in GenBank, the international DNA repository, with each published sequence crediting the student by name.

One student said: “I find it exciting that we have the opportunity to publish research just like undergraduate and graduate students do.”

Other students valued how the program expanded their perspective on possible career options: “This experience is a fantastic opportunity to explore a potential career path. I wasn’t very interested in biotechnology last year, but after participating in the program, my interest has definitely grown.”

More information on LLNL educational programs and opportunities can be found at the Science Education Program website or at stem-education [at] llnl.gov (STEM education).