🔥🔬 Students at Martin L. Nesbitt, Jr. Discovery Academy (NDA) learned what secrets fire can tell as part of a hands-on, career-oriented fiber lab last month.
NDA science teacher Greg Tucker invited Lucas Weir, coordinator of recruitment and educational outreach for the NC State Wilson College of Textiles, to present the science, engineering, and far-reaching career pathways behind the fabrics we use every day. The highlight of the session was a hands-on burn test analysis, where students examined how different fibers behave in a flame to determine whether they are cellulosic, protein-based, or thermoplastic. Working through cotton, wool, lyocell, nylon, polyester, and a mystery fiber (dyed cotton), students used observation, smell, ash patterns, and burn characteristics to classify each sample. They carefully collected their data and listened intently as Weir described the huge range of career pathways in the fiber sciences.
“There’s so much, from fashion and business to medical applications, polymer chemistry, engineering, and even aerospace and automotive innovation,” Weir said.
Students learned how textiles incorporate every part of STEAM education. They also explored summer programs and scholarship opportunities offered by the Wilson College of Textiles.
“The experience gives students a better appreciation of the textiles they use every day and a real sense of how many different careers revolve around basic textile manufacturing,” Tucker said.
Students were surprised by the breadth of opportunities.
“I never knew NC State offered all of these programs and had so many scholarships,” said Justin, an NDA junior. “I am definitely applying to the STEP camp this summer.”