Army Corps of Engineers promotes STEM awareness at Texas Christian University

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Fort Worth District
Story by Denisha Braxton

Date: 09.24.2013
Posted: 09.26.2013 12:34
News ID: 114313
Army Corps of Engineers promotes STEM awareness at Texas Christian University

FORT WORTH, Texas - Col. Charles H. Klinge, commander, Fort Worth District, Army Corps of Engineers spoke to 22 engineering students on the Texas Christian University campus, Sept. 24 about opportunities with the Corps.

Klinge discussed the role the Corps of Engineers has in the Army, the many projects the Forth Worth District is working on such as the new Fort Hood Hospital and the District’s commitment to addressing the Nation’s challenges for strengthening the Science, Technology, and Math education system and increasing the number of college graduates in STEM professions.

“Our students enjoyed the interaction with Col. Klinge and his team. You’d be surprised at the number of engineering students who really don’t know how broad the profession is, and are continually asking me “what do engineers do”. The presentation absolutely helped answer that question,” said Robert Bittle, associate professor, Department of Engineering, Texas Christian University.

As part of the Fort Worth District’s continued focus on its outreach efforts in increasing awareness and inspiring students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematic fields, the district has and continues to participate in several science fairs, technology workshops and other STEM events to attract and bring excitement to STEM education to the youth in the community.

“Col. Klinge covered a lot of opportunities the students had not considered. I appreciate having the Corps of Engineers invest time and interest to talk to our students,” said Dr. Walt Williamson, chair, Department of Engineering, Texas Christian University.

The TCU Engineering Department consists of 250 students led by 15 faculty members who have an interest in undergraduate engineering education, have significant engineering work experience, and are actively engaged in undergraduate research. The University offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical or Mechanical engineering.


“Our goal with the STEM program is to increase awareness in STEM education to draw a diverse group of young minds to be future biologists, technical experts, and engineers,” said Klinge. “STEM awareness needs to be an ongoing initiative so we can continue to build the foundation for our students’ futures.”