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In a first-of-its-kind program, the Robert C. Byrd Institute (RCBI) will place 3D printers and other technology in more than 30 middle and high schools across West Virginia â including Calhoun Middle High School â to spur innovation among agricultural educators and students.
Each classroom will receive a 3D printer, Raspberry Pi computer, an Arduino micro-controller kit and an array of electronic components that can interface with the Raspberry Pi and Arduino.
RCBI will provide teachers with hands-on training in the use the technology and related software, and offer additional online resources.
In addition, RCBI will train teachers how to adapt the technology for agricultural settings.
“By equipping classrooms with this innovative technology and the know-how to use it, we believe agriculture students across the state will apply these technologies to solve problems and create new opportunities in the agricultural sector,” said Bill Woodrum, director of entrepreneurship and coordinator of Agricultural Innovations at RCBI.
The pilot program is an expansion of RCBIâs Agricultural Innovations, an initiative that uses advanced technology to accelerate innovation in West Virginia agriculture.
Schools will receive the technology packages and teacher training June 19 during a gathering of state agricultural educators at New Martinsville High School in Wetzel County | 
