(CRANE) – Crane Army Ammunition Activity participated in the 35th Annual Team Crane Science Fair at Westgate Academy Conferencing and Training Center April 4.
Crane Army employees judged nearly 200 science, technology, engineering, and math-related projects from more than 300 local students grades 6-12. Students from 17 local schools attended the event and discussed STEM career opportunities at Crane Army.
Col. Michael Garlington, commander of Crane Army, lauded the students’ efforts as he presented awards to winners in the chemistry category.
Crane Army Ammunition Activity Safety Chief Rick Mace examines a student’s project at the 35th Annual Team Crane Science Fair April 4, 2019. U.S. Army photo by Amy Crane, Crane Army Ammunition Activity.
“It’s awesome to see so many young people interested in STEM,” Garlington said. “It’s kids like these who will create new technology and equipment solutions for future Warfighters.”
Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division runs a year-round STEM program for local children. NSWC Crane STEM Coordinator Tina Closser is in her eighth year managing the program.
Crane Army Ammunition Activity Commander Col. Michael Garlington presents a trophy to a student at the 35th Annual Team Crane Science Fair April 4, 2019. U.S. Army photo by Amy Crane, Crane Army Ammunition Activity
“I love seeing individual student’s projects improve from year to year,” Closser said. “The science fair really motivates the kids and furthers their interests in STEM. It’s also great for them to learn more about everything Naval Support Activity Crane does and all the career opportunities there.”
Crane Army employees interviewed students on their projects and ranked them based on criteria including creativity, scientific thought, thoroughness, skill, and clarity. Safety Chief Rick Mace judged projects for the second year in a row.
“It’s neat to see the various ideas and talent coming from these kids,” Mace said. “I really enjoy encouraging the next generation of STEM professionals.”
Crane Army Ammunition Activity Commander Col. Michael Garlington asks a student about his award-winning project at the 35th Annual Team Crane Science Fair April 4, 2019. U.S. Army photo by Amy Crane, Crane Army Ammunition Activity
Crane Army is dedicated to educating local schools and students on the various STEM opportunities on NSA Crane and fostering tomorrow’s scientists and engineers.
Crane Army Ammunition Activity produces and provides conventional munitions requirements in support of U.S. Army and Joint Force readiness. It is one of 14 installations of the Joint Munitions Command and one of 23 organic industrial base installations under the U.S. Army Materiel Command, which includes arsenals, depots, activities and ammunition plants.
