INL helping high school students find interest in STEM careers

The Idaho National Laboratory had high school students from around the region come in for an event that ties in with the My Brother’s Keeper initiative Friday.

Students participated in a full day of hands-on activities and laboratory tours, interacted with research scientists and nuclear engineers and learned about science, technology, engineering and math careers and opportunities for post-secondary education and internships. MBK engages students in STEM activities relevant to the mission of INL and related to what they are learning in school.

President Barack Obama announced the MBK initiative to address the opportunity gaps disadvantaged and minority kids face.

MBK is a recent event the INL has taken on to interest students in STEM. The goal of the event is to break down stereotypes about STEM careers and provide them great role models and mentors to follow.

“The people that I’ve talked to, the professionals who have made their way into an influential position even though they have faced great adversities,” Edgar Herrera-Vega a senior at Idaho Falls High School said. “Anybody can push through that, and if you work hard enough, you can achieve anything you put your mind to.”