Session 7

Relative Compression Testing Using PicoScope

Ronald Alexander     

Time: Session 7 10:15-11:00 Room: Transportation Systems Lab 115 Park

Repeat: Does not repeat.

Description:
This session demonstrates how to use a PicoScope for relative compression testing in internal combustion engines, tailored for transportation technology educators. Participants will learn step-by-step procedures for capturing and interpreting compression waveforms, identifying cylinder performance issues, and integrating diagnostic data into hands-on lab instruction. Real-world classroom strategies and troubleshooting tips from my experience teaching transportation technology will be shared, along with guidance on aligning labs with industry standards and enhancing students’ technical problem-solving skills.

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World Builders: Teaching Technology and Society using Minecraft

Bryan Diaz-Ximello     

Time: Session 7 10:15-11:00 Room: Communication Systems Lab 102 Park

Repeat: Does not repeat. 

This presentation highlights the Liberty Partnerships Program’s Minecraft World Solution Expo, where 4th-11th grade students became researchers and innovators. Students investigated global issues such as climate change, hunger, clean water, and sustainable cities, then designed creative solutions in Minecraft: Education Edition. Their research and digital builds culminated in a science fair–style expo, where students presented to peers, educators, and community members.

The project blended academic research with game-based design, bridging STEM, social sciences, and technology literacy. Students practiced collaboration, public speaking, and evidence-based reasoning while imagining solutions to real challenges.

This session will share strategies for guiding research, scaffolding Minecraft as a design tool, and structuring showcases. Attendees will gain practical insights to adapt this framework and empower students as world builders tackling global issues, one block at a time.

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From Students to Leaders: Success Through High School Manufacturing Companies

Arthur Eggink, Allen Turton  

Time: Session 7 10:15-11:00 Room: Polymer Classroom 191 Wilber

Repeat: Does not repeat.

This presentation highlights how a high school manufacturing program can transform students into leaders through the creation and operation of a student-run company. We will share the story of Bulldog Manufacturing—why it was built, the challenges we faced along the way, and the strategies that helped us succeed.

Attendees will gain insight into the dual benefits of teaching advanced manufacturing skills while giving students real-world business experience. We will showcase how students developed leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and professional skills while managing authentic projects and clients. Success stories will illustrate the long-term impact on student growth and post-graduation opportunities.

The session will conclude with practical takeaways and guidance for schools interested in starting their own student-run manufacturing company, offering a roadmap to help educators replicate this powerful learning experience in their districts.
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Power up your teaching with AI tools in and out of the classroom

Tyler Morris     

Time: Session 1 (Thursday) 9:00-9:45 Room: Polymer Classroom 191 Wilber

Repeat: Session 7 (Friday) 10:15-11:00 Room for Repeat: Design Studio 203 Park

This session will feature live demonstrations on use of various AI tools beyond ChatGPT that can be used to enhance your abilities as an instructor, and ease your workload. Discover how to create effective rubrics that leverage AI technology for consistent, detailed, and actionable feedback. This session explores the intersection of traditional rubric design and emerging AI capabilities, teaching participants how to craft clear, specific criteria that AI can interpret and apply reliably. In addition, there will be structuring criteria for comprehensive AI evaluation across multiple dimensions to balance quantitative scoring with qualitative feedback.

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Budget-Friendly Electricity Projects that Spark Learning 

Mike Petrie, Jeremy Calkins  

Time: Session 2 (Thursday) 10:15-11:00 Room: Metals Lab 163 Wilber

Repeat: Session 7 (Friday) 10:15-11:00 Room for Repeat: Metals Lab 163 Wilber

As technology educators, we strive to provide meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities while working within the constraints of our budget. This session will present a variety of affordable electricity project ideas complete with resources and cost breakdowns. Activities range from single-day lessons to multi-week projects, with a focus on direct current (DC) applications. Each project is adaptable for both middle and high school classrooms, making them easy to integrate into your existing curriculum. Whether you are introducing an electricity unit for the first time or looking to expand your current electricity course, you’ll leave with practical, budget-conscious ideas ready to implement.

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Drone Soccer’s Hands On, Sports-Centric Approach to Filling the Tech Pipeline 

Robert Payne, Lisa Marie Payne  

Time: Session 6 9:00-9:45 Room: Maraviglia Atrium

Repeat: Session 7 10:15-11:00 Room for Repeat: Maraviglia Atrium

CNY Drones volunteers from education and industry share the basics of U.S. Drone Soccer, a CTE program and internationally recognized STEM sport.  The National Association connects educators with getting started resources and standards aligned lesson plans. A network of District leaders maintains a competition ladder moving teams from scrimmages to a 24-team National Championship with access to World Air Sports Federation international competition. From classroom to afterschool programs, the U.S. Drone Soccer Association (501c3) continues to grow, onboarding nearly 8 teams per month across the Country.  New York State, with our SUNY Polytechnic Institute hub, leads the way with the largest contingent of teams & programs for the 4th year.  Are you in?

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