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REAL TIME WITH... IPC APEX EXPO 2023 SHOW & TELL MAGAZINE I I-CONNECT007 101 bers have more than doubled, from 52 to 118 students. Matador Engineering students focus on the integration of mechanics, elec- tronics, programming, and manufacturing by focusing on robotics and robotic manu- facturing. We share and refine our skills by inviting local youth to explore robotics experiences with us on Saturdays. We believe that sharing a passion for STEM educa- tion through hands-on experiences has the potential to change lives." IPCEF did live polling during the STEM Out- reach Event; results indicated that over 75% of the students in attendance considered pursuing a career as an engineer following high school. Che Nevarez, engineering teacher at Olym- pian High School, said, "The IPC STEM event has a huge impact on the students who attend; it's a memorable experience for them. They all have a really good time, it's engag- ing, and I haven't had a single student say that they didn't have a good time at your event. Word gets around to the first-year students to take the Honors class so they can attend the following year. As for the impact it has on me as a teacher, it is extremely gratifying getting the support from IPC." Each high school left the event with a Solder- ing Education Kit donated by Weller. Philippe Buidin, VP marketing and general manager at Weller Tools, said of the donation: "The digital transformation is in full swing. Mobile and cloud computing, the internet of things, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are greatly impacting our work environment in exciting new ways. As is our custom, we at Weller are confidently and constantly mov- ing forward with new ideas to anticipate our customers' ever-changing needs. That's why we're glad to be able to support the students of the STEM program with our products again this year, so that they are prepared for their future workplaces." The students completed close to 800 pins and showcased the pins' flashing lights on their clothes. The program for each day kicked off with a Breakfast for Champions followed by break- out sessions covering the hands-on pin build soldering activity, the design track, and the show floor tour. Before the Career Panel Lun- cheon, a talented student, Dylan Nguyen,