What an incredible week of learning, exploration, and discovery at AMPED – CTE Intensiv…

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What an incredible week of learning, exploration, and discovery at AMPED – CTE Intensive for Middle Schoolers! Our eleven middle school students from Nuiqsut, Kaktovik, and Wainwright had an amazing opportunity to explore Alaska’s energy sector, discover the science and technology behind energy production, and learn about the many career pathways that contribute to our state's economy. Throughout the week, students explored topics including electricity generation, oil and gas, natural gas, renewable energy, energy efficiency, workplace safety, and environmental stewardship. One of the highlights of the experience was taking learning beyond the classroom through hands-on activities, site visits, facility tours, and conversations with industry professionals. Students toured Barrow Electric Utility and the Water Works, gaining firsthand insight into the essential services that support our communities and the people who make them possible. We also had the wonderful opportunity to tour Ilisagvik College and learn more about the educational opportunities, programs, and career pathways available right here on the North Slope. A special thank you to Kahelelani Moli, Director of Recruitment and Outreach, for welcoming our students and sharing valuable information about the college and the opportunities it offers. Another memorable experience was visiting the North Slope Borough Wildlife Department offices and field station. A special thank you to Kendra and her knowledgeable intern for arranging such an engaging and educational tour! Students explored the offices at the college, visited the specimen rooms at the field camp, and participated in a hands-on activity measuring mock whales and collecting data, just as scientific teams do during whale harvesting activities on the North Slope. This experience provided a wonderful connection between science, research, and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. A special and heartfelt thank you to Mr. Kent Mingneau, Qatqiññiaġvik Learning Center (QLC) and District Career and Technical Education Coordinator II, and Ms. Brandy Fisher for taking such wonderful care of our students, chaperones, and facilitators throughout the week. Your coordination, support, attention to everyone's needs, and dedication helped make this experience enjoyable, meaningful, and successful for everyone involved. As an educator, I especially appreciate opportunities like AMPED that introduce middle school students to Career and Technical Education (CTE) at an early age. Experiences like these encourage curiosity, build confidence, introduce new interests, and help students begin exploring possibilities for their future. A huge thank you to Rebecca (Beki) Toussaint, Leola Rutherford, and Zee Rosadl from Alaska Resource Education (#AlaskaResourceEducation) for organizing and facilitating this wonderful workshop. Your enthusiasm, knowledge, and dedication made the week both meaningful and memorable. Special thanks as well to the North Slope Borough School District for making this enriching experience possible, and to everyone at Barrow Electric Utility, Water Works, Ilisagvik College, and the North Slope Borough Wildlife Department for welcoming our students and sharing your knowledge and expertise. I leave this week with new knowledge, fresh perspectives, wonderful memories, and an even greater appreciation for the importance of connecting education with industry, culture, and real-world experiences. An amazing week, incredible learning, and a powerful reminder that some of the best learning happens beyond the classroom!