On March 18, 2025, students from Big Rapids Virtual School experienced the exciting world of culinary arts during a visit to the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education at Grand Rapids Junior College. This hands-on trip marked an important step for these students as they explored potential careers in the culinary field.
The visit included a tour of the institute’s high-tech kitchens and bakery, where students could observe the daily operations of a professional culinary environment. As they walked through the state-of-the-art facilities, the students were captivated by the variety of cooking techniques they observed and the opportunity to ask questions directly to the chefs overseeing the programs.
“The interactive experience really opened our eyes to what it would be like to work in this field,” said one student, reflecting on the importance of such visits for student engagement and career exploration.
In addition to the tour, faculty members conducted an informational session that outlined the programs available at the institute. They discussed admission requirements, tuition, and the various scholarship options available for prospective students. This session provided valuable insights for students considering their futures in culinary education.
To conclude the visit, the students were treated to a five-course gourmet lunch at The Heritage Restaurant, the on-campus fine dining establishment. This final experience allowed them to taste the high-level culinary skills they could develop at the institute, reinforcing their interest in pursuing a culinary career.
Just a week prior, on March 11, 2025, NASA's Glenn Research Center in Cleveland hosted a Career Technical Education program that welcomed over 150 students and educators. This initiative aimed to ignite interest in technical careers and provide inspiration for future professionals in various fields.
Dawn Schaible, the deputy director of Glenn Research Center, emphasized the significance of the event during her opening remarks, stating, “Here at Glenn Research Center, we love what we do, and we love to share what we do. I hope you find today educational and inspiring, and let your passion and hard work drive you to places you can’t even imagine. We have space for every profession at NASA.”
The event was part of NASA’s Next Gen STEM Project, organized in collaboration with Glenn’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM). Students received a behind-the-scenes look at technical careers that drive NASA’s missions, allowing them to explore the various capabilities like machining and fabrication that are vital to the agency’s success.
Visitors toured Glenn’s Manufacturing Facility to see firsthand how technical skills are applied in real-world contexts. They were shown machining, fabrication, and even advances in 3D printing that make NASA’s ambitious projects possible. This exclusive access bridged the gap between theory and practice, providing students with a clearer vision of their potential roles in the workforce.
Students also ventured into Glenn’s Flight Research Building, where they interacted with the flight crew and learned about ongoing aeronautics research missions using the Pilatus PC-12 aircraft.
“In OSTEM, our role is connecting students, just like you, with real opportunities at NASA,” stated Clarence Jones, an OSTEM program specialist, encouraging students to envision their future careers in the field.
Creating opportunities for engagement like “Careers in Technical Education Day” and similar events is crucial for motivating students and helping them see themselves in these roles. As NASA continues to inspire the next generation, they are also paving the path for future talent in STEM fields.
Looking ahead, NASA has scheduled another informative event titled “Spinoffs in Sports,” set for April 10, 2025. This virtual experience will delve into the innovative technologies developed by NASA and how they are integrated into the sporting world. Registration for this unique career connection ends on April 4, 2025.
Moreover, NASA is providing a unique opportunity for students to interact with astronauts aboard the International Space Station through In-Flight STEM Downlinks. The Expedition 74 proposal window is currently open until April 29, 2025, allowing students and educators alike to propose questions to be answered by astronauts live.
Both events at the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education and NASA’s Glenn Research Center exemplify the power of immersive learning experiences. By engaging students with industry professionals, these educational initiatives foster a new generation ready to embrace careers in both culinary arts and aeronautics.
