Physics students lead hands-on motor workshop for Upward Bound STEAM Day

Members of Marshall University’s Society of Physics Students (SPS), with faculty advisor Dr. Sean P. McBride, recently helped introduce local students to the principles of electromagnetism during Upward Bound STEAM Day.

Approximately 120 students participated in the event, rotating through workshops where they built miniature electric motors and learned how magnetic fields and electric currents interact to produce motion. Participants were able to take their completed motors home and test what they learned beyond the classroom.

SPS volunteers Niko Faulcon, Tyler Parsons, Diesel Bryant, Conner Mathis, and Riley Zornes assisted with the workshop, helping students assemble and troubleshoot their projects. Friendly competition added to the excitement, with the fastest builders in each session receiving SPS T-shirts and Physics bags.

The workshop was supported by the Marshall University Society of Physics Students through the endowed Society of Physics Students Fund, established by Dr. Frederick W. Smith.