Our program introduces core engineering concepts through engaging, age-appropriate projects that illuminate the scientific principles behind real-world innovations.
Each EmpowerSTEM session lasts approximately two hours. The experience begins with a brief introduction to the day’s challenge, followed by a 10-minute mini-lesson covering the core engineering concepts relevant to the activity. Participants are then divided into small groups of 2–4 to collaboratively build their project.
As students work, facilitators guide them through the engineering design process—constructing, testing, optimizing, and iterating. Toward the end of the session, each group presents their final design and tests their project in front of their peers. To conclude, participants complete a reflection sheet to capture what they learned, how they approached the challenge, and how the experience shaped their understanding of engineering.
Learn essential engineering skills, explore aerodynamics, and design a high-speed rubber band–powered car that tackles real-world challenges.
Test structural integrity, optimize design efficiency, and construct a towering model that defies wind and gravity.
Design strong structures, explore tension and compression, and build a scale bridge that balances weight and stability.
Build portable power, explore energy transfer, and design a durable flashlight that shines through the darkest challenges
Convert energy into motion, apply Newton’s laws, and create a thrilling coaster that loops, turns, and accelerates with precision
Explore buoyancy and propulsion, reduce drag, and engineer a floating vessel that glides across water with power and grace
Discover the elegance of unpowered flight. Learn how lift, drag, and air currents work together to keep a glider soaring smoothly through the skies.
Dive into the world of propulsion and thrust. Engineer a high-powered rocket that defies gravity and explores the upper reaches of the atmosphere.