Power Your Future sponsor packet

CLAY CENTER FOR THE ARTS AND SCIENCES

www.theclaycenter.org/pyf | 304-561-3570

What is Power Your Future?

Focused on the science and technology behind the exploration,

extraction and use of natural gas

Sets up in only 30 minutes with 10 different stations for students

and visitors to explore

Uses competitive, video game-based software to introduce STEM

careers that are available locally within the fast-growing natural

gas industry

Powered by compressed natural gas (CNG)

“Power Your Future is about much more than teaching students about current trends in science and uses of technology. It’s about opening their eyes to a world of career opportunities — careers available right here at home.”

– former Clay Center President & CEO Judy Wellington www.theclaycenter.org/pyf | 304-561-3570

What is the impact of Power Your Future?

Introduces students to high-level

careers available at home in the

fast-growing energy industry

Encourages students to seek higher

education in a STEM discipline,

developing a highly-skilled work

force throughout the region

Supplements classroom curriculum

with hands-on learning that reinforces

important STEM concepts, as well as

communication, team-building and

critical thinking skills

Helps communities better under-

stand a growing and transformative

presence in their backyards —

the natural gas industry

“Teachers will not only have the chance to observe their students in action on the vehicle, but the data they receive as part of the PYF visit will help them in assessing their students’ experience with the interactive exhibits.

The energy curricula provide the opportunity for teachers to expand their students’ knowledge of the energy industry into other areas such as solar, biomass and wind power. Together, these energy programs provide a very well rounded experience for students and educators.”

– Clay Center Director of Education R. Lewis Ferguson www.theclaycenter.org/pyf | 304-561-3570

Who does Power Your Future serve?

Schools, libraries, fairs, festivals and other community events

throughout West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio and the larger region

Students beginning the process of selecting the educational and

career paths that will shape their futures

Teachers in need of engaging hands-on learning experiences that

achieve state and national education standards and objectives

It isn’t just for students – the exhibit is a great tool for educating

communities about the science and technology behind gas

exploration, extraction and use

“By engaging and inspiring students through a dynamic hands-on experience of the natural gas production process, this exhibit will take their understanding of a possible future in this exciting industry to the next level.”

– Charlene Petrelli, President, EQT Foundation

www.theclaycenter.org/pyf | 304-561-3570

WE’RE FALLING BEHIND

#27

12% U.S. behind 26 other countries in STEM degrees

Number of STEM graduates fell by 12% in last decade

In 2014, nearly half of employees in STEM-related fields were age 45 or older

Classroom time spent on science is decreasing from 2.9 hours/week in 1994 to 2.6 in 2012

1994

2.9

2012

West Virginia is expected to add 25,000 STEM jobs by 2018

2.6

30.7%

Lack of funding & resources

STEM IN THE CLASSROOM:

Teachers identify the widest gaps

STEM careers are among the fastest growing and pay 25% more

20.5%

Limited exposure to Disconnect among technology related subjects within STEM

13.7%

We all have a part to play in powering the future.

Be part of the answer.