Students to Learn Building Science on Mars

The National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) is launching an education program to engage K–12 students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, collectively known as “STEM.” The program specifically focuses on building design, construction, and operations and maintenance, and includes developing age-appropriate content within the Whole Building Design Guide for student use.

The program’s first activity, in partnership with NASA and the Total Learning Research Institute (TLRI), focuses on building information modeling and facility management through use of TLRI’s virtual Mars environment. In addition to fostering a future skilled workforce for the building industry, NIBS says the program will educate students to be responsible occupants of high-performance buildings. The program is currently seeking technical and financial support from individuals and organizations. For more information, see www.nibs.org.