Posted: August 25, 2005
Contact: Doug Anderson, doug.anderson@MinnState.edu, 651-201-1426
A student-built, custom-made motorcycle, along with "touch-and-find" kiosks and a giant interactive map of Minnesota, are on display at the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities state fair booth in the Education building.
The chopper, made with a 1500 cc Harley Davidson twin cam B Series engine, features parts designed and made by students in South Central College's Computer Integrated Machining program. In the two-year program offered at the college's Faribault and Mankato campuses, students build a custom motorcycle. With state-of-the-art software and equipment, students learn the manufacturing process from start to finish.
Fairgoers interested in preparing for or re-tooling their careers can take a virtual tour of the 32 Minnesota State Colleges and Universities through three "touch and find" interactive kiosks.
Representatives from Minnesota Online, a clearinghouse of online courses, programs and services at the state colleges and universities, will demonstrate how online education works. Minnesota Online offers more than 100 diploma, certificate and degree programs. Fairgoers will be able to sign up for online courses in the booth.
The exhibit includes a giant interactive map of Minnesota showing all 53 campuses. A model railroad with cars representing the state colleges and universities also is on display. The train is sponsored by UPS Earn and Learn program. Fairgoers also will have a chance to win prizes once an hour by spinning the "Wheel of Luck."
In addition, a Minnesota Workforce Center representative will be on hand during daytime hours from Tuesday through Friday, Sept. 2 to answer questions from fairgoers who need a new career. State college and university presidents and members of the Board of Trustees will be available at various times to meet fairgoers and discuss educational opportunities.
