Empowering Future Engineers: Inside A World in Motion with Emma Akouri

Podcast Summary: SAE Beyond the Competition – A World in Motion with Emma Akouri

In this episode of SAE Beyond the Competition, host Mike Sorg and co-host Scott Schultz interview Emma Akouri, Education Program Specialist for A World in Motion (AWIM) at SAE International. The discussion explores AWIM’s impact on STEM education, Emma’s journey from teaching to SAE, and how industry professionals and university students can engage with the program.

• What is AWIM?

World in Motion (AWIM) is SAE International’s STEM education initiative, offering 21 hands-on, inquiry-based challenges for students ranging from pre-K to 12th grade. The curriculum integrates real-world problem-solving and teamwork, promoting skills like critical thinking and engineering design.

• Emma Akouri’s Background & Passion for Education

Emma, a former second-grade teacher, transitioned into her role at SAE to make a broader impact on STEM education. She shares how AWIM fosters engagement, creativity, and excitement in students, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning experiences.

• Integration of AWIM into Classrooms & Industry Engagement

AWIM partners with schools, after-school programs, and companies (e.g., GM, Borg Warner) to bring STEM education to diverse learning environments. Industry professionals volunteer to assist educators, providing real-world connections to STEM careers.

• Learn Twice Program – An Opportunity for University Teams

SAE offers university teams a $2,500 stipend if they complete 30 hours of volunteering with AWIM. This initiative helps students gain mentorship experience, engage with younger learners, and promote STEM education in local schools.

• Upcoming AWIM Initiatives

AWIM is expanding to include electric vehicle (EV)-focused challenges for high school students. The Powered Up initiative introduces physics, chemistry, and statistics-based activities to prepare students for future automotive and engineering careers.

• How to Get Involved

• Educators & Schools: Reach out to [email protected] to get AWIM kits or funding.

• University Teams: Sign up for Learn Twice via the SAE website and find a local classroom to volunteer.

• Industry Professionals: Participate as AWIM classroom volunteers through corporate partnerships.

This episode offers a fun and insightful look into how AWIM is shaping future engineers through interactive STEM education while also creating volunteer and funding opportunities for university teams. 🚗💡🎓