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RCBI and MU reach 45,000 Scouts, leaders with 3D Printing during National Jamboree
July 27, 2017 | Categories: Member News
A group of Scouts show items 3D-printed during the Jamboree.
July 26, 2017. Nearly 45,000 Boy Scouts, Venturers, Explorers, leaders and staff attending the 2017 National Scout Jamboree at the Summit Bechtel Reserve at Glen Jean, W.Va., experienced 3D printing up close, thanks to the Robert C. Byrd Institute (RCBI) and Marshall University.
RCBI showcased the revolutionary additive manufacturing technology in its role as an exhibitor in the West Virginia Exhibit tent, where attendees had the opportunity to experience first-hand some of the Mountain State’s best technologies and resources – both natural and industrial.
Charlotte Weber, RCBI Director & CEO, said RCBI is excited to continue its participation in the National Jamboree by sharing leading-edge technology with thousands of Scouts. RCBI first participated in the Jamboree in 2013, the inaugural staging of the event in West Virginia. Jamboree attendees then and now witnessed RCBI’s printer producing multiple items – including a fleur-de-lis, the stylized flower used in the Boy Scout symbol.
“On our first day, we interacted with Scouts from as far away as Colorado, Oklahoma and Texas as well as ones from Pennsylvania and Ohio,” Weber said. “A key interest they all expressed is high-tech possibilities – and 3D printing is on their minds as a cool tool they’re eager to use to create and make opportunities.”
Weber said she hopes exposure to the limitless options presented by 3D printing will spur Scouts’ interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) fields and manufacturing careers through opportunities at RCBI and Marshall University that include high-tech manufacturing, engineering & design, and entrepreneurship.
Scouts were participating in the 10-day Jamboree, which is the largest gathering of Scouts in the United States. The 2017 Jamboree is the second one at the vast Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve. Located on a sprawling 14,000-plus acres in West Virginia’s world-famous New River Gorge, the Summit Reserve site serves as the permanent home for the Jamboree, a celebration of Scouting that occurs every four years.
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A founding member of America Makes, RCBI encourages job creation, economic development, innovation and entrepreneurship by supporting manufacturing. RCBI provides leading-edge manufacturing equipment including 3D printing, specialized training and staff expertise so entrepreneurs and manufacturers of all sizes can innovate, create jobs and thrive.