Not only did they watch the Oakland A’s edge the Detroit Tigers 2-1 in a pitcher’s duel on Saturday, a group of over 100 Richmond kids and their family members also watched a spectacular fireworks show and learned about the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) behind the game.
For a seventh year, Chevron brought its STEM Zone to Oakland Coliseum. The interactive exhibit encourages fans to explore STEM through the science of sports.
Prior to and during the game, local families enjoyed hands-on exhibits in the Chevron STEM Zone. Exhibits included the vertical jump, anatomy of the baseball, visual feedback when pitching a baseball and a Newton’s Cradle instructing on laws such as acceleration and force. There to help explain the science behind each exhibit were STEM Zone volunteers. Chevron also invited teachers connected to Chevron’s annual Fuel Your School program, which funds teacher-requested classroom projects, to enjoy the STEM Zone and the A’s game.
In inviting youth and their families to Saturday’s game, Chevron Richmond coordinated with local nonprofits Building Blocks For Kids Collaborative, the Richmond Police Activities League, Girls Inc of West Contra Costa County and the Shields-Reid Community Center. The company provided transportation, dinner, and sponsored the post-game fireworks show.
The event is part of Chevron’s broader goal to engage the Richmond community and inspire students to explore STEM subjects in school and eventually pursue STEM careers.
“Every year, we bring our STEM zone to the Coliseum to teach people about science, technology, math and engineering,” said Stacy Moffitt, Community Engagement Specialist at the Richmond Refinery . “We love being part of this game because we get to bring together our partners, community members, friends, family and fellow fans to watch the A’s and to promote a fun way to learn about science.”
