Valley Metro and its partner PGH Wong Engineering, Inc., recently kicked off the Engineers of the Future virtual program, a free online program that offers middle school students virtual learning opportunities, giving them a chance to delve into lessons and learn about engineering and transit concepts.

Students learn remotely from Valley Metro engineer-mentors via video-taped lessons and transportation-themed projects. The mentors will assist youths in building balloon cars, bridges, circus balance projects and marshmallow slingshots while simultaneously teaching them various scientific concepts. Students also will take virtual field trips to Valley Metro Rail construction sites and view special guest lectures to uncover more about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers. The youths will receive grade-level appropriate books as part of the program. They can pick up the books at the Valley Metro South Central Extension/Downtown Hub Community Office at 5040 S. Central Ave. while supplies last.

To learn more, visit engineersofthefuture.com.