Going behind the fence

  • Posted: Tuesday, August 13, 2019, 4:39 pm

Paul Wasilko explains Y-12’s mission work and history during a Secret City tour.Paul Wasilko explains Y-12’s mission work and history during a Secret City tour.

The rain didn’t keep people from participating in the Secret City tours at Y-12 on the morning of June 7 nor did it keep employees and their children from attending Bring Your Children to Work Day that afternoon. About 550 people were registered for both events.

The morning tours included a brief history of Y-12 and information on current work. Communications’ Eric Swanson often gives these public tours. “It’s important for the public to understand our role in national security over the last 75 years and to see the things we’re doing today to position the site for another 75 years of service,” he said.

Ben Green of Y-12 Development was on hand with a 3-D printer. “Events like the Bring your Children to Work day, Introduce a Girl to Engineering, and STEM events at local schools are a great opportunity to expose a variety of individuals to engineering and get them excited about the broad potential associated with gaining a degree in an engineering field,” Green said.

Other areas showcased included Sustainability and Stewardship, LiveWise, Y-12 Fire Department, and Security. Children also had opportunity to complete a STEM activity.

A father and daughter participate in some of the hands-on activities at Bring Your Children to Work Day. A father and daughter participate in some of the hands-on activities at Bring Your Children to Work Day.
Getting some hands-on experience with some personal protective equipment. Getting some hands-on experience with some personal protective equipment.
Learning about Y-12 while viewing the exhibits at New Hope Center. Learning about Y-12 while viewing the exhibits at New Hope Center.