February 20 to 26 is National Engineers Week (EWeek), a celebration that emphasizes the significant contributions of engineers and the importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

Centered on the theme “Engineers: Pioneers of Tomorrow,” this year’s celebration of EWeek at the University of Miami will feature events and activities that highlight breakthroughs and advancements in engineering and technology. The week’s activities include a family day picnic, innovation showcase, and outreach events for high school students who are considering a career in engineering.

On Wednesday, February 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., an Innovation Expo will take place at the University Center, Lower Lounge, on the Coral Gables campus. The expo will feature a variety of advances within the field of engineering. A jet-engine exhibit and flight simulator demonstrations will be given by members of the U.S. Air Force. The expo will also include the UM Robotics Team, accompanied by its 120-pound competition robot, and an Xbox Kinect game display by Microsoft. Free and open to the public, the Innovation Expo will allow students, faculty, and aspiring engineers to enjoy a hands-on experience with recent innovations in technology on a global scale.

On Thursday, February 24, more than 100 local high school girls will visit the UM campus to learn about engineering on Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day. The day’s activities will include an engineering challenge competition and a tour through the College of Engineering laboratories, with live demonstrations given by graduate students and professors.

Celebrating its 60th anniversary, National Engineers Week is a longstanding tradition for engineering students at the University of Miami. EWeek was launched in 1951 by the National Society of Professional Engineers in conjunction with President George Washington’s birthday. President Washington is considered the nation’s first engineer, notably for his survey work.

For a full schedule of EWeek activities and events, visit: http://www.miami.edu/eweek, or contact Ann Helmers, director of career services at the College of Engineering, at [email protected] or 305-284-2058.