STEM Spark! 2026: Invent the Future
STEM Spark! is a dynamic half-day summit designed to ignite curiosity and inspire innovation among middle school students (grades 5–12). To be held on Saturday, October 10th, the event offers a vibrant mix of hands-on workshops, panel discussion, and interactive exhibits that highlight real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and math. With carefully designed workshops, STEM Spark! aims to provide age-appropriate, engaging experiences that empower students to explore future STEM pathways and connect with mentors and professionals who are shaping the world through discovery and creativity.
Date and Time
Location
Hosts
Registration
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- 2015 S Peoria St, Chicago, IL 60608
- Chicago, Illinois
- United States
- Starts 12 August 2026 05:00 AM UTC
- Ends 10 October 2026 05:00 AM UTC
- Admission fee ?
Agenda
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Time |
Type |
Details |
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8:30 – 9:00 AM |
Welcome |
Check-in & Welcome Activities Students arrive, check in, and receive color-coded name tags by grade group. Icebreaker STEM trivia and tabletop challenges. |
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9:00 – 9:45 AM |
Panel |
Panel Discussion A panel of [3–4] college students or young STEM professionals sharing personal journeys. Focus on early challenges, building confidence, and the value of curiosity. |
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9:45 – 10:30 AM |
Workshop |
Workshop Block 1 Students split into grade-appropriate workshops (see breakdown below). |
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Middle School Workshop A: [Buoyancy & Fluid Dynamics Workshop] - Anya Allen |
Middle School Workshop B: [Powering the World (Energy & Hardware)] - Sasidhar Tadanki | ||
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High School Workshop C: [AI Workshop ] - Spandana Koradonbi |
High School Workshop D: [Astronomy Workshop] - Mike Anderson |
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10:30 – 10:45 AM |
Break |
Break & Exhibits Snacks provided. Demo stations with hands-on exhibits (e.g., robotics, VR, science demos). Exhibits dependent on sponsor support. |
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10:45 – 11:30 AM |
Workshop |
Workshop Block 2 Students split into grade-appropriate workshops (see breakdown below). |
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Middle School Workshop B: [Powering the World (Energy & Hardware)] - Sasidhar Tadanki |
Middle School Workshop A: [Buoyancy & Fluid Dynamics Workshop] - Anya Allen | ||
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High School Workshop D: [Astronomy Workshop] - Mike Anderson |
High School Workshop C: [AI Workshop ] - Spandana Koradonbi |
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11:30 – 11:45 PM |
Break |
Break & Exhibits Snacks provided. Demo stations with hands-on exhibits (e.g., robotics, VR, science demos). Exhibits dependent on sponsor support. |
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11:45 – 12:00 PM |
Closing |
Wrap-Up & Prize Raffle Quick wrap-up, recognition of volunteers and sponsors, prize drawing. Students complete short feedback cards. |
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