Airships, gears, robots, steam power and buzzer-beating theatrics highlight the 2017 FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition known as FIRST Steamworks.

For the past several months, I've been sneaking away from work early every Thursday afternoon to coach my daughter's Science Olympiad team. Those of you who read this column regularly know that I'm a supporter of STEM education programs, and I've encouraged you to participate in those programs wherever possible.

Action Challenge Introduces Students to Fluid Power Industry in the latest STEM educational effort from the National Fluid Power Association.

Kate, a sophomore studying engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, has a genuine interest in manufacturing, so it was natural that she attend IMTS. But the other three? My kids? Well, let’s just say that their interests lie elsewhere. Matt, also a sophomore, is studying business at UW-Platteville. Emily, a sophomore in high school, wants to join the Peace Corps. Renee, an eighth grader, wants to be a surgeon.

In the Stott household, we love math. Well, maybe not everyone in my household loves it equally, but since they were in kindergarten, whenever one of my children asked me for help with math homework, my reply has been an instant and cheerful “We love math!”