What IS Chemical Engineering?

Introduction & Motivation

Chemical engineers use their knowledge of chemistry to convert chemicals and materials into more useful forms. Chemical engineers are involved in several fields, including food science, photography, and the development of materials needed for the aerospace, biomedical, automotive, computer, environmental and electronic industries. Among the many, many developments, they are involved in the production of all kinds of materials, including gasoline, biodiesel, even candy.

Materials

• A computer
• Access to a projector

Discussion

To introduce the students to chemical engineering as a career, we wrap up the first day of the camp by a little discussion. First, ask students what they know about chemistry. What does it involve working with? Do they know of any chemistry they use in everyday things, like baking? Do they know chemistry terms or have they tried any chemistry experiments?

Next, ask if they’ve heard of it in the context of engineering. What does engineering make them think of in general? Does it spark thoughts of problem solving or math? How might this connect to chemistry to give us chemical engineering? Do they know any chemical engineers?

Show them this video from the NSF on what chemical engineering is to give them an introduction. (This video about chemical engineering is great for older students who might recognize some of the classes talked about after 7:33) Afterward, ask them if any of the areas of chemical engineering interest them, or if they’ve ever thought about doing engineering before. If they are hesitant, what kind of things hold them back?

(Optional: Take a moment to show them this TEDxPSU talk by Debbie Stirling on Inspiring the Next Generation of Female Engineers)