The State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa held its 68th annual event, March 27-28 at Hilton Coliseum on the Iowa State University campus. The fair, a dynamic platform for young minds in grades 6-12 to present their STEM research projects, featured over 600 participants showcasing more than 480 projects.
“The two-day extravaganza was a celebration of innovation, scientific inquiry and the bright future of STEM,” according to Alexa Groff, Iowa 4-H STEM coordinator and SSTFI director with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
Attendees had the chance to explore a diverse range of projects, from environmental science to cutting-edge technology, demonstrating the creativity and dedication of Iowa’s youth.
The research experience is core to the mission of SSTFI. According to Groff, the research aspect allows students to gain critical scientific skills needed for postsecondary work. Through participation in the event, students learn about science and engineering processes, problem solving, and the importance of being able to communicate and defend those findings to others. Participants are asked to prepare a research poster detailing their findings and the data collected to compete.
Beyond the projects, participants engaged in the unique “Career Sessions” series, providing an invaluable opportunity to interact with STEM professionals, gain insights into various fields, and foster mentorship connections, Groff said.
The fair also offered educational outreach programs across Iowa State University’s campus, allowing youth to experience hands-on activities and demonstrations from different departments and groups. This interaction aims to spark curiosity, inspire learning and reinforce the connection between science and everyday life.
With over six decades of history and holding the Governor’s STEM Seal of Approval, the SSTFI has become a cornerstone event for the Iowa STEM community. The fair not only encourages scientific exploration but also provides a competitive platform for participants to vie for awards and prizes, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the world of STEM.
The SSTFI was open to the public, welcoming parents, educators and STEM enthusiasts to witness the incredible projects and engage with the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.
MMCRU Middle School took 13of our regional Science Fair winners including; Ethan Steffen, Emmett Rupp, Lilly Olson, Laiken Bork, Rebekah Casson, Samantha Peterson, Sophie Juhl, Giana Stevens, Ashley Mouser, Kenten Galles, Kiefer Iverson,  Hayden Olson, & Preston Busch.  Thank you to our Middle School Science Teachers 5th/6th Cheyenne Olson and 7th/8th Sam Schroeder for taking students to the event.  We would also like to thank our Science Fair Sponsors who covered most of the cost for the kids trip; Ag state, Cherokee Regional Medical Center, Farmers State Bank, Details Custom Designs, Bavarian Meadows Senior Living Center, American Bank, Ten Corp Inc., Mike’s Construction, Jeff’s Foods, Busch Construction LLC., Marcus Dental, Countryside Vet Clinic, Mahoney Auto Repair LLC., Marcus Community Fair, Smith Insurance Services LTD., Eberts Construction LTD., and Easton Farms.