The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) recently brought the exciting world of engineering to Banks Elementary School.
ALDOT employees Justin Palmer, Cade Mobley and Daryl Calhoun engaged students in a hands-on lesson about bridges and the importance of strong structures. This visit showed the real-world impact of their work.
This was a part of ALDOT’s ongoing efforts to connect with young students and spark curiosity to inspire future engineers.
Banks Elementary fourth-grade teacher Gracie Shaddix emphasized the importance of real-world learning for young students.
“Even though they are in fourth grade, getting to see real-world professionals and ask them questions makes a huge difference,” Shaddix said. “It helps them connect what they are learning to real careers and could inspire them to pursue these fields in the future.”
The lesson tied into the students’ studies on natural disasters. Specifically, how engineers can design structures to withstand forces like earthquakes, tornadoes, or hurricanes.
“I hope my students walked away with a better understanding of how we can build to prevent damage in our communities,” Shaddix said.
Inspiring future engineers
Justin Palmer, a Region Design Engineer for ALDOT’s Southeast Region, explained the importance of introducing young students to engineering.
“Everything in the world that we live in is engineered in some way,” Palmer said. “Whether it’s the roads we drive on, the houses we live in, or even medical equipment. Helping students understand that gives them a better concept of how the world around them works.”
Palmer also highlighted the significance of encouraging students to consider engineering careers.
“Civil engineering is something that can’t be outsourced,” Palmer said. “We need local professionals with boots on the ground to maintain our infrastructure. Getting kids excited about engineering early on can lead them to careers that help preserve and extend our infrastructure.”
For students interested in engineering, Palmer stressed the importance of strong math and science skills.
“If you want to be an engineer, you really need to pay attention in your science and math classes,” Palmer said. “Having a solid foundation in those subjects will set you up for success.”
ALDOT’s outreach, like this school visit, helps students see real-world connections in their lessons. The visit also introduces students to engineering careers. By inspiring young minds, ALDOT invests in the future of infrastructure.
