PALACIOS

What is WIT?

This program is for high school students who have an interest in expanding their knowledge and understanding and/or careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) with the help of the Nuclear Power Institute—NPI. More specifically, the program is designed for mentoring and encouragement to prepare students for STEM-rich programs at universities, two-year technical colleges, and technical certificate programs. By participating in WIT, students gain exposure to higher education and career opportunities while building the confidence to consider further STEM education. While the founding emphasis is based on nuclear energy and technology applications, the program is broadly open to all aspects of STEM applications. The WIT program engages students through local sponsors within participating schools in the State of Texas.

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The Story Behind the Bracelet

One tradition established is the WIT bracelet. The bracelet is made of leather and stainless steel. Training for the workforce, it is important to know about the history of these two materials as it applies to the values of WIT and moving forward for our future.

Leather has been in use for thousands of years. It was once used primarily for clothing and was also incorporated into different types of tools. It was used in different types of old fashioned industries such as saddles for horses or the reins for an ox pulling a plow. Leather is used for gloves and boots as a means of modern protection. Leather represents something that is durable, but also incredibly adaptable. Leather is something that has stood the test of time. When you see the leather of your bracelet, you must remember you must be durable and flexible. While things in life might not go as planned, you can be durable and flexible and like the leather of your band, you can get through it.

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Steel is comprised of iron, carbon, and other elements.  This compound has also withstood the test of time. It revolutionized our country as we transitioned from primarily wood to steel in the early 1800s with the onset of the industrial revolution. It was used to build the railroad, improve our shipping vessels, build bridges, and build structures like skyscrapers. Steel is designed to be tough, yet moldable and adaptable. Made up of elements that by themselves are weak, when put together, they are strong. When you see the steel of your bracelet with the inscribed "WIT PHS," remember that you also need to be moldable and that sometimes by yourself you may falter, but together, with others, you can be strong.