The Arizona Research Institute for Solar Energy (AzRISE), in alliance with the University of Phoenix, hosted an exhibit at the 12th annual Key to Employment for the 21st Century, Industry, Technology and Career Expo on January 28th.

 

The Metropolitan Education Commission (MEC) sponsored the Expo, which was held at Tucson International Airport and attracted more than 850 students and 80 teachers. Dr. June Webb-Vignery, MEC Executive Director was thrilled with the success of the Expo. She stated, “The event was a great success. From the feedback we have received, the students were captivated by the dynamic industry-based projects from a wide range of businesses. The students saw fascinating demonstrations and incredible technologies, discovered some great careers, gathered lots of valuable resource materials and explored options to continue their education.”

 

Representatives from AzRISE at the Expo included Dr. Kelly Simmons-Potter (pictured above, back to camera), AzRISE Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Department of Optical Science at the University of Arizona, who is also Associate Director for Education at AzRISE. She was joined by Matt Gindlesparger, AzRISE Technical Program Manager, Pamela Vossler, Program Coordinator and Zachary Schneider, AZRISE Graduate Fellow.

“We were thrilled to see so many excellent students clearly interested in careers in solar energy and other high-tech fields,” said Dr. Simmons-Potter. “A highly educated workforce is essential to the future of solar energy in the region, and it is encouraging to see so many students with a strong interest in the science and engineering that drives the industry.”