February 8, 2023
think + drink / science
Our quarterly think + drink / science program transforms The Planetarium into a forum for learning, conversation, and connection with thought-provoking science and inspiring speakers. Each speaker is a subject-matter expert who gives a presentation on their area of expertise then opens the floor for questions and discussion. Enjoy conversation over drinks on the patio before the program.
- The evening begins at 6:30pm with beverages on the patio in front of the Museum; presentation begins at 7pm inside The Planetarium.
- $15 for members of the Discovery Society; $20 for all others (registration includes one free beverage per person. Beer and wine cash bar available)
- Seating in The Planetarium is on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Preregistration required.
The Democratization of Engineering & Manufacturing
In the first presentation of The Bishop’s Year of Engineering, Richard A. Platt, designer, artist, and retired Manatee County Engineering teacher, will share how advanced engineering and manufacturing technology is becoming accessible to all, thus ushering in a new age of American innovation.
With a B.A. in Visual and Applied Design from University of Houston – Clear Lake, Richard Platt began his career many years ago at NASA designing for the Space Shuttle program using a million dollar CAD system. He went on to used his CAD and computing expertise at Intergraph, Silicon Graphics, Compaq, Bentley Systems, and Dassault Systemes, before becoming an engineering teacher in Florida and Texas, including at Southeast High School, Braden River High School, and Buffalo Creek Middle School in Manatee County. Richard inspired and guided his students to win national and international competitions in engineering using today’s advanced manufacturing technology, and continues to support engineering access in his retirement.
