Last fall, SFE volunteered with Pensacola Mess Hall at two local schools in Pensacola during their Family Science Night events.
Pensacola Mess Hall is an organization that provides hands-on educational events and activities designed to support STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) learning. Their Family Science Nights feature 10–15 interactive stations where students and their families can explore topics such as engineering, chemistry, and physics through engaging, experiment-based activities. Our staff, Greg Kelly (President), Katy Rollins (Operations & Accounting Manager), Curt Gentile (Water & Sewer Infrastructure Consultant), Ayush Lodha (Statistical Modeling & Civil Engineering Consultant), and Drew Gallegos (Marketing & Accounting Administrator), helped lead the Wind Tunnel station,where participants explored basic concepts of aerodynamics. Participants tested how different shapes and materials responded to airflow, observing how design and structure can influence lift, drag, and stability. The activity provided a simple, interactive way to introduce foundational engineering concepts related to motion and air resistance.
In addition, our staff supported the Tower of Hanoi station, a logic-based puzzle activity designed to challenge problem-solving skills, spatial reasoning, and sequential thinking. Participants were tasked with moving a stack of disks between pegs following a specific set of rules, requiring careful planning and strategy to complete the challenge efficiently. This activity encouraged critical thinking and patience as students worked through increasingly complex solutions.
Events like Family Science Night provide students and families with the chance to engage with scientific concepts in a hands-on environment, helping to reinforce classroom learning in a more fun and interactive setting. SFE is proud to give back to our local community. Opportunities to engage with students and share knowledge about STEM-related topics allow us to contribute to the development of future professionals.
To learn more about Pensacola Mess Hall, click here: Pensacola MESS Hall – Math, Engineering, Science & Stuff
