Kids, Code, and Community Hustle

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast, I stand at the seventh WV Raspberry JAM at the University of Charleston. My sons Ray and Clark join me. We explore this STEM education event centered on the Raspberry Pi computer. Ray plays games and talks to people. Clark builds and programs Lego setups. We decide to gather interviews from attendees.

I approach Brett White first. He shares how this year’s event thrives with new sponsors and visitors from Kansas City, Missouri. He mentions lessons in website development, a parent detector project, and a game testing button-pressing speed. Brett lists sponsors like BizSolutions.Tech, Providence Insurance Agency, IT Solutions by Josh Ellis, KDE Technology, Plug In Promotions, University of Charleston, and Dutch Miller Automotive Group.

Next, I speak with Mike Stockman, a solutions architect from BizSolutions.Tech. He describes how people of all ages engage with Raspberry Pi technology. His company, based in Charleston, marks its third year sponsoring. They focus on technology consulting, implementations, integrations, and training. Mike emphasizes their commitment to community involvement and technology awareness for kids.

Next meet Connor Briggs and Seth McLain. Connor explains they showcase a version two device prototype and network with attendees. Seth points out laser engraving for dog tags and various knickknacks around the event.

Clark finds Vince Smith, who highlights learning technology while having fun. Ray talks to one of the kids building a synthesizer with a sequencer and oscillator, still in progress.

I catch Josh Ellis observing the crowd. He notes young people showing interest in technology and enjoys watching them explore. Clark interviews Tina White, who supports STEM and coding. She values seeing people of all ages and backgrounds share a passion for creating. As the event winds down, Brett hands out prizes. Ray wins a Makey Makey, a device that connects objects like bananas to play games.

We wrap up after trying to interview more kids. Many feel too shy to talk, including Clark at times. Not everyone fits the Kanawha Valley hustler mold, but that’s fine. The day ends with us reflecting on the connections made and the technology explored at this Raspberry JAM.