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JIA excursion to the University of Siegen

Thomas Reppel

On October 28, 20 students from the Junior Engineering Academy (JIA) in Year 9 at Maria Königin Grammar School in Lennestadt set off for the University of Siegen together with their teacher, Mr. Walter. An exciting and practical insight into the world of engineering awaited them at the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

© Matthias Walter
Schüler:innen beim Robotik Workshop

In the robotics workshop, which was run by Peter Sahm from the Chair of Control Engineering, the young people programmed their own NXT robots. They learned how to use various sensors and actuators as well as the associated programming environment. The students were able to experience in a playful way how technical systems react to commands and how important precise programming is in robotics.

A special highlight was the subsequent laboratory tour through the department's state-of-the-art research areas. The group gained an insight into various robotic systems - from precise industrial robots used in modern production facilities to impressive XXL-sized drones developed and built by students themselves. This allowed the young people to experience at first hand what is being researched in robotics today and how diverse technical innovations can be.

The excursion not only offered an exciting change from everyday school life, but also aroused enthusiasm for their own technical projects and possible study and career paths in the STEM field. A successful day full of practical experience, new insights and inspiration!