The APG Discovery Center held its first annual Magic of Science Fair at the APG Discovery Fest at Aberdeen Proving Ground. The APG Discovery Fest, held on May 4th, 2019 was an opportunity to see what is being done “behind the fence” at APG, including demonstrations of APG technology, a job fair with nearly 2,000 participants, and the First Annual Magic of Science Fair for middle schoolers.
The APG Discovery Center, with the help of the Harford County Senior Science Society, planned and organized the Magic of Science Fair, which included students from eight middle schools and several home-schooled students. There were 25 projects with 33 students who entered the juried competition. Projects ranged from citrus powered phones to harnessing solar energy, gravity’s effect on root growth, and the impact of hurricanes on different housing structures. Winners were determined as “Best in Grade”, “Runner-Up”, and “Honorable Mention”.
The Magic of Science Fair was sponsored by Freedom Federal Credit Union, a strong supporter of the APG Discovery Center. Freedom’s Business Development Director, Sue Manning, was present for the awards ceremony. Their sponsorship included high tech prizes like 3-D printers, virtual reality systems, and robotic kits, which were awarded at each grade level. “It was a privilege to meet these phenomenal young people and an honor for Freedom to present them with awards that will encourage their love of science and technology,” stated Manning.
The APG Discovery Center is envisioned to be a 30,000 square foot facility, located near, but not on, the APG property. The intent is to develop a destination location for STEM related activities, APG displays providing a view of “tomorrow’s technology today”, and a place to show and retain the more than 100 years of history at Aberdeen Proving Ground. Additional information can be found at http://www.apgdiscovery.com/
The APG Discovery Center will be a place where students of all ages experience, create, and play with science and technology. A place where new worlds are discovered, and connections are made. In addition to interactive exhibits, the Discovery Center will offer after-school programs, maker spaces, and serve as an anchor for the region’s STEM activities. Phase I, The Discovery Preview Center will open in Aberdeen, Maryland in late 2019.
About Freedom Federal Credit Union
Freedom Federal Credit Union is a community-chartered federal credit union offering consumer financial services to those who live, work, volunteer, worship, attend school, or have family in Harford County. Additionally, Freedom offers a full-line of banking services for all businesses, associations, and other organizations that are based in Harford County. Freedom has been in business since 1953 and has five locations throughout Harford County. To learn more, visit freedomfcu.org
