Build Something Cool at CU Boulder on Saturday, October 10, 2026
Build Something Cool is a free, hands-on STEM event where middle school and high school students explore engineering, technology, and creative problem-solving through engaging activities and projects. IEEE members, guests, students, teachers, parents, and guardians are all welcome. To volunteer, select the Register Now button below.
Help inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, and problem-solvers!
Build Something Cool is coming to the University of Colorado Boulder on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM at the Integrated Teaching and Learning Laboratory (ITLL). We are seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help make this hands-on STEM outreach event an engaging and memorable experience for middle- and high-school students and their families.
About Build Something Cool
Students will explore engineering through hands-on activities, including soldering, project assembly, and creative design challenges. They will have the chance to build a project to take home, discover new interests, and meet engineers, scientists, and STEM professionals.
Your time, encouragement, and real-world perspective can make a lasting difference.
How You Can Help
Teaches and Volunteers may assist by:
- Helping students assemble and troubleshoot their projects
- Sharing your STEM career path and answering students’ questions
- Supporting activity stations, check-in, lunch, and general event logistics
- Encouraging students as they explore, create, and build something cool
You are welcome to volunteer for the full day or a half-day shift. Lunch will be provided, and we hope you will stay to connect with fellow volunteers and participants.
Volunteer Registration
If you are available to volunteer, please use the Register button below to register and indicate your availability.
Parking instructions will be provided to event registrants by email as the event approaches.
Help Us Reach Students
Please share this opportunity with families, educators, and students in grades 8–12 who may enjoy a free day of hands-on STEM exploration at CU Boulder.
Questions? Contact:
Jim Harrer at jharrer@ieee.org
Dr. Mona El Helbawy, mona.elhelbawy@ieee.org
Thank you for helping create an exciting, welcoming day of learning and discovery!
Date and Time
Location
Hosts
Registration
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- 1045 Regent Dr.
- Boulder, Colorado
- United States 80302
- Building: Integrated Teaching & Learning Program and Laboratory (ITLL)
- Click here for Map
- Starts 07 September 2026 06:01 AM UTC
- Ends 10 October 2026 06:01 PM UTC
- No Admission Charge
Agenda
Event-Day Schedule
8:30–9:30 AM | Volunteer Arrival, Breakfast & Setup
Volunteers arrive, enjoy breakfast, set up activity rooms and workstations, and review the day’s plan.
9:30–10:00 AM | Participant Welcome & Check-In
Students and their parents or guardians are welcomed to the event, check in, receive an overview of the day, and get ready for a fun hands-on STEM experience.
10:00 AM–12:00 PM | Morning Concurrent Workshops
Students arrive for hands-on project building while volunteers guide, encourage, and assist at activity stations.
12:00–1:00 PM | Lunch & Community Time
Lunch will be available for volunteers, students, and participants. Volunteers are encouraged to join us for lunch and connect with the event community.
1:00–3:00 PM | Afternoon Concurrent Workshops
A second group of students participates in the Build Something Cool activities with volunteer support.
3:00–4:00 PM | Wrap-Up & Pack-Up
Students depart, and volunteers help clean up activity spaces, pack materials, and close out the day.
Volunteers are welcome to serve in the morning, afternoon, or for the full day. We hope you will stay for lunch!