October 10, 2026 | Missouri City, Texas
One of the most rewarding aspects of serving our community is having the opportunity to meet with young people, hear about their aspirations, and encourage them to pursue their dreams. Today, I had that opportunity while participating in the 2026 STEAM Expo, held at the Landmark Community Center in Missouri City, Texas.
The event, held in recognition of the International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated the importance of education, creativity, innovation, and opportunity for young people, particularly girls who are exploring their potential in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).
Learning Beyond the Classroom
The enthusiasm throughout the event was contagious. Students, parents, educators, volunteers, and community leaders came together for a day of hands-on learning and discovery.
Throughout the venue, students participated in interactive activities that brought classroom concepts to life. From science experiments involving chemical reactions to creative projects and engineering demonstrations, the Expo offered opportunities to explore how STEAM disciplines influence our everyday lives.
One particularly impressive exhibit featured a student-created model of the Golden Gate Bridge. The project demonstrated the principles of structural engineering, combining research, mathematics, creative design, and problem-solving into a tangible accomplishment.
Projects like this remind us that education is about much more than memorizing facts. It is about learning to ask questions, investigate possibilities, overcome challenges, and transform ideas into reality.
Conversations About Education and Careers
For me, one of the highlights of the day was the opportunity to speak directly with students about their education, their interests, and the career opportunities awaiting them in the future.
These conversations are important because young people do not always recognize how the subjects they study today connect with the professional opportunities available tomorrow.
I enjoyed discussing the value of education, the importance of developing practical skills, and the many directions a career can take. Whether a student’s interests lead toward engineering, medicine, technology, business, finance, public service, or the arts, a solid educational foundation can open doors that may not yet be apparent.
As someone whose career has included leadership in the private sector and public service as Fort Bend County Treasurer, I understand how important analytical thinking, sound judgment, communication, financial literacy, and the ability to solve problems are in virtually every profession.
I believe students benefit from understanding that success is not limited to one profession or a single educational pathway. There are tremendous opportunities in traditional four-year degree programs, technical education, skilled trades, entrepreneurship, and public service.
The key is to remain curious, continue learning, develop a strong work ethic, and be willing to explore new opportunities.
Empowering Girls to Pursue Their Ambitions
The International Day of the Girl Child provides an important reminder that every young woman deserves the encouragement, educational resources, and opportunity to develop her talents and pursue her ambitions.
Historically, women have been underrepresented in several science, engineering, and technology professions. Events like the STEAM Expo help challenge outdated expectations by giving girls the opportunity to experiment, create, lead, and see themselves as future innovators.
Seeing young women enthusiastically participating in science demonstrations, collaborating on projects, and sharing their knowledge was especially encouraging.
Confidence often begins with opportunity. When students are encouraged to explore their abilities and experience the satisfaction of solving a problem or completing a project, they begin to recognize what they are capable of achieving.
Investing in Our Community’s Future
Fort Bend County is fortunate to have an exceptionally diverse community filled with talented young people, dedicated families, outstanding educators, and organizations committed to expanding educational opportunities.
Our continued growth and prosperity depend not only on responsible financial management and sound public policy but also on preparing future generations with the knowledge and skills they will need to succeed.
As County Treasurer, I recognize that public service carries a responsibility to look beyond today’s challenges and consider the long-term well-being of our community. Encouraging education, financial literacy, career readiness, and civic engagement is an important part of that broader commitment.
The students I met today represent tomorrow’s scientists, engineers, business owners, healthcare professionals, educators, entrepreneurs, and public servants. The investments we make in their development today will help shape the future of Fort Bend County.
Thank You to the Organizers and Volunteers
I want to express my sincere appreciation to the American Caribbean Chamber of Commerce for organizing the 2026 STEAM Expo, along with the sponsors, volunteers, educators, parents, and community partners who helped make this event possible.
Creating opportunities for young people to engage with science, engineering, creativity, and career exploration requires dedication and collaboration. The effort was evident throughout the event.
Most importantly, I want to congratulate the students who participated, shared their projects, asked questions, and demonstrated their enthusiasm for learning.
My greatest takeaway from today was simple: When we take the time to listen to young people, encourage their curiosity, and help them see the possibilities ahead, we are doing more than supporting their education. We are helping build the future of our community.
I am grateful to have been part of this celebration and look forward to seeing what these talented young people accomplish in the years ahead.
Bill Rickert
Fort Bend County Treasurer
