VIENNA — Jackson Middle School seventh graders received some hands-on experience with engineering and problem solving Thursday as part of a STEAM program through the Technical Assistance Center at West Virginia University.

Angela McDaniel, a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics) specialist with the West Virginia Department of Education’s STEAM-TAC, worked with Jackson science teacher Cherish George to present a challenge to students: engineer a mechanical grasping device powered by water pressure.

Each group of students was given a set of tools and parts and could use one of three hydraulic claw designs: pincher, chopsticks or accordion. The students followed plans for the different designs, often making changes as they encountered and overcame problems. Many groups managed to create working models of their chosen hydraulic claw designs.

George said she hopes to have the program return in the future to provide more science and engineering challenges for her students.

More information on STEAM-TAC can be found at steamtac.wvu.edu.