Parker Lord, a division of Parker Hannifin Corporation and a global leader in motion and control technologies, organized a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) Outreach Day today at Meadville Area Middle School. The event provided 380 7th and 8th grade students with hands-on experience and insights into various STEAM careers, from engineering and program management to quality control.
John Stull, Manager of the Erie plant, emphasized the importance of inspiring the next generation. “At Parker, our team members are part of engineering advancements that shape a brighter future,” he said. “We’re proud to engage with local students, showing them the wide range of STEAM opportunities available. More than 80 passionate employees from our Northwest Pennsylvania facilities joined today to share their expertise and excitement with students, helping them envision the possibilities ahead.”
Heather Morrell, a Meadville Area Middle School alum, addressed the students at the event’s opening. “STEAM Outreach Day is a unique opportunity for students to see how science, technology, engineering, art, and math come alive beyond the classroom,” Morrell said. “It gives them a closer look at careers available in the field, right here in Northwest Pennsylvania, and highlights the connection between what they’re learning now and the opportunities they can pursue in the future.”
Principal Jonathan Frye expressed his enthusiasm for the event. “Parker’s involvement in STEAM Day is an incredible opportunity for our students to see how the skills they’re developing are used in real-world innovations,” he said. “It encourages them to think creatively and aim high.”
The students engaged in a series of interactive activities with fun and educational names, including “Glorious Glue,” “Bungie Buddies,” “Astonishing Assembly,” “Shocking Technology,” “Fantastic Flight,” and “Marvelous Machining,” among others. Parker Hannifin, a Fortune 250 company, has been a pioneer in motion and control technologies for over 100 years, enabling engineering breakthroughs that contribute to a better tomorrow.
