Science is all around, and is the basis of the top jobs of tomorrow. By the end of this decade, three-quarters of all B.C. jobs will need post-secondary education - with some of the most exciting among them requiring skills in science, math, engineering and technology.
With this future in mind, the province is hosting the Year of Science expo at Prince George's Civic Centre April 11 and 12.
The expo, entitled Science and the World Around Us, presents British Columbia's leading scientists and innovators as they bring to life the science behind B.C. successes in clean technology, biofuels, forestry, mining and more.
The events, which are free and open to the public, will feature expert presenters, hands-on activities, keynote speakers, career roundtables for participants of all ages and technology demonstrations - all to showcase Northern B.C. innovations in forestry, transportation, clean technology, mining and more.
Students will also have the chance to participate in engaging career roundtables as leading scientists, technologists and entrepreneurs share their inspiring stories of success.
Keynote speakers with success in the field of science include:
A partner in Vancouver architectural firm McFarlane Green Biggar Architecture and Design, Michael Green will explain how his organization is leading B.C. government research into the feasibility of constructing buildings as tall as 30 storeys almost entirely out of wood.
UNBC professors Dr. Dezene Huber and Dr. Leonard Foster will give a crash course in genomics and how the field is being applied to benefit the local community.
Dr. Leonard Foster will shed light on the mystery of why honeybee populations are plummeting in North America, and how his research is helping them fight back again disease.
George Stedeford, CEO of Carbon Offset Aggregation Cooperative of B.C. will be on hand to cover how he's helping companies reduce greenhouse gas emissions by lowering fossil fuel consumption.
Dr. Matt Reid will be showcasing how physics forms the foundation of technology - from renewable energy advances, to techno-widgetry like airport scanners.
The activity and exhibit section will allow guests to get hands-on with the tools and techniques being used by B.C.'s brightest scientists.
Examples include: mapping the origins of metals and minerals used in the construction of a snowmobile, testing out GPS devices in an indoor and outdoor geocaching activity, and witnessing the science and engineering behind B.C. transportation.
The transportation exhibit will include technology demos, including portable weigh scales for road safety checks, a hybrid car, and a model electrical intersection.
Kids of all ages will enjoy the exploration zone, putting on their thinking caps with fun, creative exercises and puzzles to get them experimenting with science and the world around us. This activity is presented by The Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre (in Prince George) and Science World.
Learn how science impacts the world around you, and how to become a B.C. science star at the Civic Centre, April 11, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and April 12, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Visit: www.YearofScienceBC.ca/world to find out more.
