In this episode of the Tech Explorations podcast, we welcome back Philip, an innovative technologist and educator, for his second interview. Over the past two years, Philip has been deeply engaged in many projects, many of which were influenced by the ongoing global pandemic.

Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, Philip managed to complete around 100 projects, some directly related to pandemic needs, such as thermal cameras and social distancing technologies. He also explored the potential of 3D printing for creating masks, although the reopening of supply lines rendered some of these innovations unnecessary.Philip reflects on the resilience of technology and science during the pandemic, noting that while political systems may have faltered, technological infrastructure remained robust. He shares his surprise and delight at how seniors adapted to using Zoom for social interactions, contrasting this with the struggles faced by younger, tech-savvy groups in less structured online meetups.

Much of the discussion focuses on Philip's current endeavors, particularly his work with seniors and STEM education. He emphasizes the importance of engaging retired individuals in STEM projects to provide them with a meaningful hobby and bridge the generational gap by connecting them with their grandchildren's educational experiences. Philip highlights the challenges and rewards of teaching programming and STEM concepts to seniors without experience in these areas.

Philip's approach to education is multifaceted. He combines hands-on projects with historical and social context, encouraging critical thinking and creativity. He shares examples of projects he has developed, such as a vertical garden with automated watering systems, a thermal camera for detecting fevers, and various robotics projects. These projects are designed to be accessible and engaging, using tools like the Microbit and M5 Stix, which simplify the learning process for beginners.

Philip also discusses his involvement with the University of the Third Age (U3A) and the CSIRO's STEM Professionals in Schools program. He aims to provide equitable access to STEM resources and education through these initiatives, particularly in underserved areas. He shares his experiences working with rural schools and libraries to enhance their STEM offerings, ensuring that all children can engage with these critical subjects.Throughout the interview, Philip's passion for technology and education shines through. He sees himself more as a mentor than a traditional teacher, guiding his students through the learning process and encouraging them to explore and experiment.

His dedication to making STEM education accessible and enjoyable for all ages is truly inspiring.Join us for this insightful conversation as Philip shares his journey, projects, and vision for STEM education's future. Whether you're an educator, a technologist, or simply curious about the intersection of technology and learning, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice.