Members of the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute campus and local community are invited to attend a special evening lecture, featuring New York Times and Scientific American technology columnist David Pogue, who also serves as host of NOVA scienceNOW. The program will take place in the Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC) Concert Hall on Friday, June 28, beginning at 7 p.m.

Pogue plans to deliver a lecture titled: “Disruptive Tech: What’s New, What’s Coming & How It Will Change Everything.” He will focus on the future of technology and what students should know to optimize their success in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.

The program is sponsored by the RPI Science & Technology Entry (STEP) Program, along with a grant from the Boeing Company to foster interest and success in STEM fields.

“Now that area elementary, middle, and high school students are out of school for the summer, planning for future careers in STEM fields may be on the minds of some students and their parents,” said Cynthia Smith, assistant dean of students and director of pipeline initiatives and partnerships at Rensselaer. “This program serves as a wonderful way to bring students and parents together so that they can learn of the many opportunities that are available by pursuing a career in the STEM fields.”

Smith also noted that Rensselaer has a long history of supporting STEM-related programs and initiatives that focus on developing problem solving and critical thinking skills through a range of enrichment activities that may include student development, leadership opportunities, career exploration, college preparation, and parental involvement. “This is our way of planting a seed early enough in the minds of today’s students because we believe that this process starts long before a student reaches college,” Smith said.

The event is free and open to the public. Parents are encouraged to bring their middle and high school-aged students. Reservations are encouraged. To reserve a seat, contact the RPI STEP Program at (518) 276-3098 or via email at: pipelineprograms@rpi.edu.

Free parking for the event will be available in the adjacent College Avenue Parking Garage.