West Haven High School students participated in the National Science Foundation-sponsored CICSTART program at Gateway Community College this summer. CICSTART is designed to build career interest in computer science through advanced, real-world technology projects.
During the program, students took part in a concise and focused, laboratory-based experience that emphasized a structured approach to basic engineering, teamwork, interpersonal communication, and technical writing skills. Westies worked on weekly team projects while taking personal responsibility for their contributions and communications.
Mr. John Birch, Founder and President of The Birch Group, LLC, a national, full-service organizational talent optimization consulting company, provided students with a 360° feedback evaluation that included a DiSC® personal assessment tool and emotional intelligence training. DiSC® is a personal assessment tool used by more than one million people each year to help improve teamwork, communication, and workplace productivity.
Engineering Professor Eric Flynn, Manufacturing Professor Mehrdäd Fäézi, Engineering Adjunct Professor Andrew Angle, and West Haven High School STEM/CTE Department Chair & Teacher Eric Rice led students through a series of microprocessor labs, solid modeling sessions, and engineering mathematics activities.
"A huge thank you goes to the NSF, Gateway Community College, and the entire CICSTART Team for welcoming our West Haven High School cohort this summer. Our students were absolutely fantastic, and I love that they chose to spend a week of their summer vacation diving headfirst into real-world STEM concepts. This invaluable experience not only rewarded their hard work but also serves as a critical builder for our high school Engineering program," said Eric Rice.
