An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

AFDW/CC encourages students to 'Dream in Extreme'

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Tammie Moore
  • Air Force District of Washington Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. --  The Air Force District of Washington commander reached out to youths to help foster their interest in pursuing science, technology, engineering and math studies by participating in the 2014 USA Science & Engineering Festival.

Maj. Gen. Sharon K. G. Dunbar talked to a group Huntington High School students as part of the Nifty Fifty Program April 23 and again to a diverse group of students at the X-STEM Symposium April 24 about why they should "Dream in Extreme."

Both of the events are part of the 2014 USA Science & Engineering Festival.

"Our mission is to re-invigorate the interest of our nation's youth in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) by producing and presenting the most compelling, exciting, educational and entertaining science festival in the United States," according to the festival website.

This is done through efforts to appeal to a large, diverse audience of all ages and backgrounds, from professionals to novices, from science enthusiasts to the merely curious with the involvement of leaders in business, technology, government, education and culture.

"X-STEM is the perfect start for the Festival as we work to spark kids' interest in STEM careers. Opening students' minds to all the possibilities that science creates is critical to ensuring our nation's progress," explained Larry Bock, Festival co-founder in an event press release.

As a festival speaker Dunbar talked to the youth about how the U.S. Air Force uses science and technology to support national defense needs. She also urged the students to challenge themselves.

"Whether you study math, biology or robotics ... whether you choose to work on space exploration or the next medical breakthrough, seize every fledgling opportunity and test yourself," Dunbar said. "You'll be surprised how far you can really go in life. If you work hard, think big, dream in extreme - the sky's no limit."

One of the X-STEM students who heard Dunbar speak was Brett Luicana, who Dunbar recognized in the audience.

"Brett cracked a warm smile when (the general) mentioned 'talking with the young man who will participate in the Naval Academy STEM Program'," said Diane Luicana, Brett's mother.

For more information about the annual festival, visit www.usasciencefestival.org/.  

(Editor's note: This article contains information from the USA Science & Engineering Festival website.)