FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wisconsin Rapids, WI, August 9, 2013 … On Tuesday, August 13, the SparkFun National Tour will stop in Wisconsin Rapids at Mid-State Technical College.

SparkFun tour leaders share their passion for electronics with students and teachers across the country. It will stop in 50 states on 50 dates, teaching students lifelong skills such as programming, soldering and building circuits.

“I’m very excited to have this event coming to Wisconsin Rapids,” said Wisconsin Rapids Mayor Zach Vruwink. “The SparkFun National Tour is stopping in major cities all across the U.S., and it’s great that our area high school students are getting a chance to participate.”

SparkFun staff will teach a one-day workshop from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. to approximately 30 students and teachers, showing how electronics can be a vital part of education. They will give students the tools, knowledge and skills needed to explore the intriguing and stimulating world of electronics.

Students from area high schools were offered this one day seminar at no charge. It is sponsored by Swanson Labs LLC, with a matching grant from Incourage Community Foundation. Local businesses including Renaissance Learning, Solarus, RPE, Domtar, and Mariani Packing Co. are co-sponsoring the event by donating funds to purchase additional electronic boards. The boards are state-of-the-art, with a joystick, microphone, light sensor, temperature sensor, accelerometer, and display connector. The boards will be given to participating students, allowing them to continue developing their skills at both school and home after the workshop.

“This event is an example of local businesses, schools and individuals working together to bring ‘real life’ technology skills and experiences to our students and teachers,” said Mark Swanson, founder, Swanson Labs.

This workshop serves as a launching point for future events. The curriculum and equipment will stay in south Wood County and be used by educators and area leaders, allowing additional students to participate.