Session 1

Meet the Mollusca Robot: how biomimicry and robotics can inspire students to tackle environmental challenges

Nate Drag     

Time: Session 1 9:00-9:45 Room: Communication Systems Lab 102 Park

Repeat: Does not repeat.

Dive into a Cornell University research project that is using snail-inspired robotics to tackle microplastic pollution. This presentation will demonstrate how the MOLLUSCA Robot, designed to efficiently remove microplastics from waterways, is inspiring the next generation of problem-solvers. This presentation will explore the unique partnership between Cornell researchers, New York Sea Grant educators, and New York teachers who are co-developing lesson plans and activities that will support 3D-printable robot models for classroom use. Join us for an overview of the research project, the curriculum development process, and a live demonstration.

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Siemens Pathway to Learning Engineering: Preparing Students for Real-World Innovation with Educational Resources and Industry Certifications

Ryan Novitski     

Time: Session 1 9:00-9:45 Room: Metals Lab 163 Wilber

Repeat: Does not repeat.

Siemens will present the Pathway to Learning Engineering (PLE) — a comprehensive, project-based curriculum designed in collaboration with Siemens engineering experts and educators. This innovative pathway immerses students in authentic design challenges while preparing them for industry-recognized certifications, including NX, Programmable Logic Controllers, and Six Sigma Lean Manufacturing. During the session, participants will discover how to access and implement the curriculum, secure Siemens software licenses for classroom use, explore professional development opportunities for educators, and register students for certification exams that validate their learning. The presentation will demonstrate how Siemens PLE equips students with the skills, experiences, and credentials needed to succeed in the evolving world of engineering and advanced manufacturing.

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Pro Tips for Tech Ed

Matt Starke     

Time: Session 1 9:00-9:45 Room: Design Studio 203 Park

Repeat: Does not repeat.

Whether you are you a new teacher starting out or a seasoned veteran, the world of Tech Ed continues to rapidly evolve for us all. After 15 years in education, there are quite a few tips and tricks that I have picked up along the way. This workshop is designed to share insights into daily life of a Tech Ed teacher and share pro tips for how to be more efficient as an educator. The session will cover topics like curriculum & file management, task organization, Google Suite management, 3D Printing strategies, social media strategies, storage ideas, promotional ideas, etc. 

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Leveraging the new Portrait of a Graduate (NYSTEEA Spring Conference)

Matthew VanKoughnett, Nate Smith  

Time: Session 1 9:00-9:45 Room: Methods Lab 213 Park

Repeat: Does not repeat.

With the Portrait of a Graduate coming out NYSTEEA would like your input so we can come up with leveraging points to provide for our administrators.  We need to be on top of this and have a list of classes and standards that we teach that fulfill the new targets.  In this session we will go over the what we already know from the state,  and start listing the classes we  are involved in and how they will meet those requirements. Be a part of the future and help all of our students succeed!

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Programable LED light shows

Brian Young, Gerard Lasponara  

Time: Session 1 9:00-11:00 Room: Electronics Lab 205 Park

THIS IS A DOUBLE SESSION and continues into Session 2 10:15-11:00

Students will get a hands on presentation involving programmable LED lights strings that bring a fun experience to learning simple coding while creating a music synced LED light show. 

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Power up your teaching with AI tools in and out of the classroom

Tyler Morris     

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

Repeat: Session 7 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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From Scrap Wood to Coffee: Brewing a Student Business from the Grounds Up

Wesley Clarke, Brandi Ingersoll, Amy LaDue

Time: Session 1 9:00-9:45 Room: Woods Lab 193 Wilber

Repeat: Does not repeat.

Throughout this presentation, we will walk through the process of building and establishing our student-led business from the ground up. This includes designing and constructing the cart, developing marketing strategies, managing product orders, and collaborating with the business office to create financial protocols. We will also outline our plan to use profits to fund a student scholarship. Additionally, the presentation will highlight other collaborative projects within the CTE department at Pulaski HS and demonstrate how we regularly work together across programs.
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