The students not only learned about the history of Cummins and its impact on the local and national economy, but also got an inside look at the technology and teamwork that drives production.

“It’s a lot of math and critical thinking skills,” said Jacqueline Peterson, a first grade teacher at Love School and STEM Club advisor who co-chaperoned the trip with colleagues Tracey Eliason and Anthony Considine. “Students got to learn about the tools they used, putting the engines together, and got to even form an assembly line during an activity. They also got to work as a team and use their brain to put an engine together.”

This hands-on experience allowed them to gain insights into assembly work and problem-solving in real time.

The students then had the chance to take a full tour of the factory and see workers in action.

Fifteen fourth graders from Love Elementary School recently had the chance to see science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in action during a Manufacturing Month visit to the Cummins Jamestown Engine Plant.

“We also got to see the engine room,” said Love student Adrienne Sherwood, a fourth grader in Lisa Certo-Card’s class. “It’s very loud and very efficient. Seeing pictures of the first engines and touching some of the equipment was really cool — I even saw an engine that was made in December.”

Students also had the chance to witness problem-solving robots and observe the entire assembly line process from start to finish, showing them how STEM concepts apply directly to real-world production.

During a visit to the engine room, the students viewed historic and recent engine models, including one produced last December, which sparked excitement and curiosity. “Seeing pictures of the first engines and touching some of the equipment was really cool,” one student shared.

The experience was an inspiring blend of science and math in action, reinforcing lessons learned in STEM Club and classroom settings.

“I love that they get to see their STEM learning come to life and what’s available locally,” said Peterson. I’m excited that we got to go. I loved the experience and I think the adults and the kids got something big out of it and had a great time.”