San Andreas, CA…More than 110 local students and teachers enjoyed an enlightening, progressive dinner with 17 enthusiastic science professionals at the 2017 Calaveras/Amador “Dinner with a Scientist” on Thursday, November 16 in Calaveras River Academy/Mountain Oaks gymnasium in San Andreas. The evening was hosted by the Calaveras County Office of Education with funding from the Teichert Foundation.

Everyone enjoyed a delicious three-course meal while the scientists shared their experience and advice about careers in technology and science. Professional scientists working in software engineering, fire science, forestry and forest management, geology, wildlife biology, zoology, wastewater treatment, education, aerospace engineering, forensics, archaeology, geospatial technology and optometry all volunteered to share their expertise. Students with a particular interest or talent in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) were invited by their teachers to participate in this special event.

Each team of students and teachers rotated to different tables to meet a new scientist for the appetizer, entrée, and dessert portions of the meal. A team of volunteers provided table service to add an elegant touch and allow students and scientists to enjoy uninterrupted conversation.

The keynote address was delivered by Brady DuBois, a 2011 graduate of Calaveras High School who attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and is now a forester with Sierra Pacific Industries. Mr. DuBois shared his experience in forestry and described the different areas of forestry and the different types of bark beetles. He also shared that although their primary focus is lumber production, Sierra Pacific Industries also helps build fire lines for firefighters and assists in making the snow melt route slower to help with our water supply.

“We are thrilled to provide this opportunity for our students and to introduce them to brilliant, passionate local scientists and engineers,” said County Superintendent of Schools Scott Nanik. “You can feel the excitement and energy in the room with so many bright, inquisitive people sharing their love of science.”

The 2018 Calaveras County Science Fair takes place Saturday, March 10, 2018. Interested students and teachers should contact Lindsey Titus at (209) 736-6093 or ltitus@ccoe.k12.ca.us.