ELYRIA, Ohio — Ridgid, the manufacturer of tools for the plumbing and HVAC trades, recently hosted its third annual We Love STEM Day for students in grades three through eight.

The event exposes young learners to the real-world roles that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) play in their everyday lives and, potentially, in their future careers, the company said in a press release.

“It was exciting to see the curiosity and interest students had in learning about how STEM integrates into what we do in manufacturing,” said Rose Hitchens, event chairwoman and chapter lead, Ridgid Women’s Impact Network for Emerson. “We were inspired by the creativity each student brought to the day’s activities and look forward to the mark they will leave on the world.”

Students participated in a variety of hands-on activities, including making balloon cars, robotic hands, pinwheels, water filtration systems, and solar-powered cars. Each activity allowed students to learn about the importance to manufacturing of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, renewable energy, and natural resources. 

Ridgid, based in Elyria and part of Emerson’s tools portfolio, is a proud supporter of local programs and education-based initiatives throughout Lorain County, Ohio, including the school spaces that reinforce STEM learning. The company also partners with current and future trade professionals and regularly invests and donates products. For years, its leaders have served on industry boards in an effort to help strengthen the trades.