Lyons Township High School Hosts STEMM Career Day

On Feb. 27, Lyons Township High School hosted STEMM Career Day, where students explored careers in science, technology, engineering, math and medicine.

STEMM Career Day inspired many students to get excited about their future career path, and served as an introduction to others of where their passions can lead them.

Throughout the day, students heard from prestigious speakers including Kamal Judeh, an evidence technician in the forensics division of the Chicago Police Department; Alana Prieto, a NICU respiratory therapist at Advocate Christ Medical Center; Curt Preissner, a mechanical engineer, in the photon sciences division at Argonne National Lab; Mandy Long, CEO of Artificial Intelligence Company at BigBear.ai; Jason Kwong, a senior software engineer at General Motors; Dr. Laura Ozark, internal medicine, Loyola University Medical Center and many more.

“It was remarkable to see our students’ curiosity and inquisitive nature as they mingled with the experts. They were inspired by hearing the daily problem solving and creativity used in the workforce,” said science teacher and STEMM Career Day planner Sylvia Tanious.

These experts gave students a glimpse into the real-world applications of STEMM, recounted personal stories, and shared ultrasounds, computer programs and more. It served as a great opportunity to open their eyes to possibilities outside the classroom.

“We were proud to empower our students with real-world information and engagement with community leaders and even welcomed back some alumni to discuss their career paths,” said Principal Dr. Jen Tyrrell.

Throughout the year, Lyons Township High School offers many STEMM opportunities in the classrooms and various clubs and activities. For example, the LT GEMS is a group of girls who want to explore STEMM. The Future Healthcare Professionals and Robotics Clubs meet regularly to learn more with field research. Science Olympiad is one of the premiere science competitions in the nation. Division chair of Mathematics and Science, Jeannine Prucha, said, “Our goal of creating lifelong learners; adept at critical thinking, problem solving and collaborating is celebrated with the career choices of the STEMM Career Day speakers and opportunities to grow as an Lyons Township High School student.”