Spring Middle School STEM Squad (2-day)

Morning: Johnstown Inclined Plane 🚡

The Johnstown Inclined Plane is the steepest vehicular inclined plane in the world, designed to transport people and vehicles up the hillside. Originally built in 1891 after the Great Johnstown Flood of 1889, it was engineered as a flood evacuation route and a means to connect the city below with the higher, safer ground.

STEM Highlights:

• Engineering & Mechanics – Learn about the physics of incline railways, counterweights, and pulleys.
• Flood Prevention & Safety – Discover how this engineering marvel was created to help protect Johnstown from future floods.
• Historic Transportation – Explore the role of inclined planes in early industrial America.
• Students will ride the incline to experience firsthand how this unique transportation system operates and provides a real-world example of physics and engineering in action!

Mid-Morning: Johnstown Flood National Memorial 🌊

The Johnstown Flood National Memorial tells the story of one of America’s deadliest disasters, the Great Flood of 1889, which claimed over 2,200 lives. The flood was caused by the failure of the South Fork Dam, releasing a massive wall of water that devastated the city.

STEM Highlights:

• Hydrology & Dam Engineering – Investigate the science behind dam failures, water pressure, and the forces of moving water.
• Environmental Impact – Learn how the flood reshaped the landscape and how modern engineering aims to prevent similar disasters.
• Early Warning Systems – Explore how the lack of modern weather forecasting and communication contributed to the disaster.

Students will explore museum exhibits, view the remains of the dam, and watch an engaging documentary that details the event and its aftermath.

Lunch at the Big Mac Museum 🍔

A fun and quirky stop, the Big Mac Museum celebrates the history of one of McDonald’s most famous creations, which was invented in Western Pennsylvania! Located inside a McDonald's restaurant, the museum features a giant Big Mac statue, memorabilia, and exhibits detailing the history of the sandwich.

Afternoon: Flight 93 National Memorial ✈️

The Flight 93 National Memorial honors the passengers and crew of United Flight 93, who bravely fought back against hijackers on September 11, 2001, preventing an attack on the U.S. Capitol. Located in Shanksville, PA, the memorial features a Visitor Center, Wall of Names, and the Tower of Voices, a 93-foot-tall wind chime structure symbolizing the voices of those lost.

STEM Highlights:

• Aerospace & Flight Engineering – Learn about the physics of flight, airplane structures, and aviation safety measures.
• Emergency Response Technology – Explore how 911 calls, black box recordings, and communication systems played a role in the event.
• Memorial Architecture & Acoustics – Discover the engineering behind the Tower of Voices, which uses wind energy to create sound.

Students will reflect on the courage and resilience of those aboard Flight 93 while learning about aviation science, technology, and emergency preparedness.

Check-in at Sheraton Pittsburgh Station Square 🏨

After an exciting day in Johnstown, students will head to Sheraton Pittsburgh Station Square to relax for the evening. The hotel, located along the Monongahela River, offers easy access to downtown Pittsburgh and many local attractions. Students can enjoy its spacious rooms, modern amenities, and a comfortable atmosphere before another fun-filled day!

Morning: Gateway Clipper Sightseeing Tour 🚢

Gateway Clipper sightseeing tour along Pittsburgh's scenic Three Rivers—the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers. The tour offers a unique way to explore Pittsburgh’s history, riverfront development, and iconic landmarks

STEM Highlights:

• River Ecology & Hydrology – Learn about the river systems, water quality, and environmental efforts to protect the rivers.
• Engineering & Architecture – Discover how bridges and riverfront infrastructure were designed and built in Pittsburgh’s challenging landscape.
• Geography – Discuss the role of rivers in the region’s development and how water impacts urban growth.

This boat tour provides a relaxing yet informative way to start the day, giving students a fresh perspective of Pittsburgh’s engineering marvels and natural resources.

Mid-Morning: Carnegie Science Center 🔬🚀

One of Pittsburgh’s top destinations for hands-on STEM exhibits. The Carnegie Science Center features interactive displays and engaging science activities that cover everything from robotics to space exploration and physics.

STEM Highlights:

• Robotics & Technology – Learn about robotics, AI, and automation in the Robotics Academy.
• Space Science – Explore the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood Exhibit and space exploration with the Buhl Planetarium.
• Physics & Engineering – Dive into the interactive physics exhibits, where students can see real-world applications of engineering and basic scientific principles.

Students will engage in hands-on activities, allowing them to connect classroom knowledge with real-world applications in a fun and interactive environment.

Lunch: North Shore Tavern ⚾🍔

After an exciting morning, enjoy lunch at North Shore Tavern, located near PNC Park, home of the Pittsburgh Pirates. The restaurant offers delicious American fare, including the famous Steak on a Stone.

Afternoon: The National Aviary 🦜

The National Aviary, home to more than 500 birds from around the world. This indoor facility provides an up-close look at both exotic and local bird species in naturalistic habitats.

STEM Highlights:

• Ecology & Biodiversity – Learn about the global bird species and their habitats, as well as conservation efforts to protect endangered species.
• Animal Biology – Study avian anatomy, behavior, and the biology of flight.
• Environmental Science – Explore the ecosystem services birds provide and how environmental changes impact wildlife.

Students will have the opportunity to observe and interact with a variety of species, deepening their understanding of environmental science and biodiversity.