ELYRIA, Ohio — RIDGID, a part of Emerson’s professional tools portfolio, hosted its second annual “We Love STEM Day” in June for 38 students in grades three through eight. The event was designed to support local schools and engage students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It also helped RIDGID demonstrate the role these vital subjects play in manufacturing.

“It was wonderful to see the energy and excitement the students had for learning — and to hear their questions about manufacturing and the way STEM is used in the work we do,” said Rose Hitchens, event chair, “We Love STEM Day” and chapter lead, RIDGID Women’s Impact Network for Emerson. “Engaging students at an early age in STEM education helps to encourage a love of learning in these subjects. It also helps foster the next generation of creators, innovators, and inventors.”

Students participated in a variety of hands-on activities that strengthened their problem-solving skills, including building a flashlight and testing different methods of creating a strong and lightweight pasta tower.

RIDGID supports local programs and education-based initiatives throughout Lorain County, including Elyria school makerspaces that reinforce STEM learning. The company also partners with current and future trade professionals and regularly invests and donates products.