The International Society for Terrain Vehicle Systems (ISTVS) student chapter at Virginia Tech and faculty advisor Professor Corina Sandu recently brought the exciting world of off-road mobility and engineering to Christiansburg Elementary School for a hands-on STEM outreach event. Aimed at students up to 5th grade and their families, the event blended fun, education, and creativity through a variety of interactive displays and demonstrations.
From real-world materials like clay and sandy loam to the high-tech simulation of a HMMWV navigating rugged terrain, students got to explore the challenges of terrain mobility up close. Toy trucks and excavators captured imaginations, while a live depth sensor demo showcased cutting-edge computational tools. A lunar rover tire on display sparked curiosity about space exploration, leading to fascinating conversations about how tires work differently in extraterrestrial environments.
Kids getting their hands dirty!
The younger students especially enjoyed getting their hands dirty—literally—by creating ruts in clay and experimenting with how different surfaces affect vehicle movement. Others got creative with coloring sheets designed by ISTVS members, while inquisitive minds peppered us with insightful questions about engineering, space, and design.
Parents were equally engaged, asking thoughtful questions about STEM career paths and how to nurture their children's interest in science and engineering. The event was not only educational but also a joyful celebration of curiosity, innovation, and community engagement.
We’re excited to keep the momentum going and continue inspiring the next generation of STEM thinkers and terrain vehicle enthusiasts!
