The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) hosted a booth at a local street fair to engage with the community and share information about the Energy Technology Engineering Center (ETEC) at Santa Susana Field Laboratory (SSFL).
Energy Technology Engineering Center
December 6, 2024
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Thousands of community members took to the pavement at the recent Simi Valley Street Fair showcasing local artists, crafters, businesses and culinary delights.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) was among the more than 380 vendors that hosted a booth at the October 26 fair.
The biannual event, sponsored by the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce, featured a “pumpkin jubilee” theme. Children participated in a coloring contest, and they dressed in Halloween costumes for trick-or-treat at the booths. Participants of all ages competed in a pumpkin carving contest.
DOE shared information about work at the Energy Technology and Engineering Center (ETEC) at the Santa Susana Field Laboratory (SSFL), a 2,850-acre former nuclear energy research and rocket engine testing facility. DOE previously conducted nuclear energy and liquid metals research in Area IV at SSFL.
Attendees could also learn about science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers at DOE or pick up a copy of the August 2024 CleanUpdate newsletter, internship resources or the EM Strategic Vision.
Other vendors included community leaders, civic organizations, local fire and police departments, school districts and educators, and other prominent members of the Simi Valley community.
A highlight at the booth was the seed ball activity. Guests took balls of soil, clay, water and California Poppy seeds, wrapped them with tissue paper and decorated them like pumpkins, bats and other spooky creatures to take home and plant in their yards. The project was inspired by DOE’s preservation efforts at SSFL to ensure the plants and wildlife are monitored and protected into the future.
-Contributor: Melissa Simon