Innovation in Motion

The Newsletter of the Jenifer R Powers Fruit Memorial Fund

Innovation in Motion will explore the latest trends in STEM and robotics spurring innovation in the Steel Valley region spanning Youngstown and Pittsburgh. Read about the cutting-edge research, entrepreneurial ventures, and educational initiatives putting our area at the forefront of the high-tech economy.

We also shine a spotlight on the inspirational scholastic programs the Jenifer R Powers Fruit Memorial Fund is proud to support, which are equipping the next generation with the skills to become leaders in science and technology. Meet some of the students and teachers making an impact thanks to the generosity of our donors.

Justin Powers Justin Powers

How a Train Derailment Inspired a Young Engineer's Award-Winning Research

Growing up in East Palestine with my sisters Jenifer and Juliette, problem-solving was woven into the fabric of our childhood. Our parents instilled in us a simple but powerful principle: never miss an opportunity to learn, no matter how tragic the situation. When a devastating train derailment struck my hometown in February 2023, I witnessed how that same principle of finding learning opportunities amidst tragedy was being carried forward by a remarkable young man 1,500 miles away in La Joya, Texas. Fourteen-year-old Gary Allen Montelongo turned this disaster into award-winning research that could help prevent future derailments.

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