Philadelphia School Partners With Local Manufacturer For Successful STEM Education Program

La Salle Academy, a private, independent Catholic grade school in North Philadelphia, has celebrated a successful collaboration with Airline Hydraulics. This local manufacturing company, founded 75 years ago in Philadelphia, partnered with the school to offer an educational after-school STEM program for 7th graders.

The STEM program introduced students to the basics of programming industrial computer systems known as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). It began with fundamental lessons on wiring and assembling electronic components and explaining the differences between DC electronics and AC power. Throughout the course, students learned to program a traffic light intersection simulator.

Ed Brogan, the program leader and an Application Technology Specialist at Airline Hydraulics, expressed his enthusiasm: "The students are wonderful. It was an enjoyable experience, especially after a long school day; we would get up and move to the application room for hands-on activities. That was the key to the class—it had to be hands-on."

The practical applications of the program made complex concepts relatable. Besides the traffic light demo, students learned to write programs to simulate a mixer, similar to those used in making slushies at convenience stores. This method ensured that students were learning and engaging thoroughly with the material.

Students expressed their enjoyment of the program. Sherrell, a participant, said, "For me, it was really about the building. Once I figured out how to program it, it was less confusing. Mr. Brogan explained it well, and I got the hang of it." Angel, another student, shared, "It was really great. We did programs to make a traffic light, and it was actually kind of fun. It took a lot of work, but it was worth it."

Community Impact

Michael ShackelfordPeña-Taylor II, a 7th-grade teacher at La Salle Academy, emphasized the program's importance: "This was a great experience for the class. It was a blessing that Airline Hydraulics could come in and do this for us. It helped kickstart our engineering curriculum and opened up new possibilities for our students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM fields."

The program concluded with a pizza-party celebration featuring professionals from Airline Hydraulics. They shared inspiring career stories and demonstrated the use of a 3D printer, which left students intrigued and excited about engineering.

Looking Forward

Due to its positive impact on students, Airline Hydraulics will return to La Salle Academy for the next school year. They will teach a different 15-week course to 15-30 7th-grade students.

About La Salle Academy

Opened in 2003, La Salle Academy serves children from low-income families in West Kensington and Philadelphia from grades three through eight. The school focuses on small class sizes and an extended school calendar. Entirely supported by donations, it charges a nominal tuition fee and emphasizes values like Peacefulness, Responsibility, Consistency, Motivation, and Respect.

About Airline Hydraulics

Airline Hydraulics is a leading provider of hydraulic, pneumatic, automation, and control products. With 75 years of industry expertise, they are committed to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional service to their clients.