The Electric Life of Ben Franklin

Portrait of Benjamin Franklin, 3/4 view, with his arms crossed and his glasses on his nose.

As you do your own investigations and projects with electricity, you might want to think about a STEMist from the past who was also interested in electricity: Benjamin Franklin. A Founding Father of America While Franklin is best remembered as one of America’s founders, he was also a man of many interests.  During his life he was a writer and publisher, …

Technology in Fashion

Photograph of performer in a Faraday Cage dress with electricity flowing from her finger tips.

STEMists have done some amazing things with textiles (fabric) and clothing. Today we have clothing that changes color in sunlight, socks with aloe to soothe the feet, and fleece fabric made from recycled plastic bottles–just for starters! There are fabrics to protect people from water, germs, acid, bullets, and ultraviolet light. Textile engineers often work with artists and designers to make sure their discoveries can be turned into clothing that looks nice enough for people to wear. Continue reading →