Fresh Newsletter
What's Happening in STEM
Feb. 5 | Volume 3 - 2026
The NC STEM Center is a Web Portal for all things related to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education in North Carolina
 
 
Volunteers and judges needed for the 2026 NC Science and Engineering Fair

Support the next generation of innovators

The North Carolina Science and Engineering Fair (NCSEF) is looking for passionate volunteers and judges to help make the 2026 event at NC State University a success. Whether you have a few hours to help in-person or prefer to support students virtually from home, your time makes a massive difference in these young scientists' lives.

Ways to get involved...

Pre-Fair Reviewers: Work from home on your own schedule to review student forms or scientific projects for completeness.

Virtual Volunteers (March 17): Support the fair online as a Zoom Moderator or Host.

Judging (March 17 and March 21): Judges are needed for virtual sessions on Tuesday and the in-person State Fair on Saturday. You can register for either or both!

In-Person Volunteers (March 20-21): Help with student check-in, project set-up, room monitoring, and awards ceremonies at NC State.

Questions? Please email judges@ncsciencefair.org or volunteers@ncsciencefair.org.  Special thanks to this year's host, NC State University, for making the event possible!

Please enjoy your e-Update. Connect with us to share your feedback. 

 
 
  Opportunities

Explore NC STEM Center

SearchButton-orange.jpgDo you have an opportunity or program doing great STEM work in North Carolina? Here's how you can post  and promote your special events, camps, and afterschool programs all year long. We invite you to create an account to get started today!

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  STEM Spotlight

Life in the Clouds

nczoo.jpgJoin the North Carolina Zoo’s 2026 Homeschool Days: Environments Around the World! March 10 is all about Life in the Clouds, with three age-aligned sessions planned. Don’t miss the final part of the series: Canopy Kingdoms on May 7.

Read more
 
 
STEM East Industry in Schools Series 

Call for partners to help shape NC's future workforce

STEMEastSchoolsSeries-1.jpgThis April, STEM East is hosting the Industry in Schools Series to introduce students to local career opportunities and success pathways. Your expertise is needed. Use the provided link to review how you can get involved and submit an offering no later than Feb. 20. → Learn more
 
High school girls interested in STEM-related public service careers can apply by Feb. 23

ICYMI: Applications open for girls summer STEM mentorship

2023 Lady Cardinal logo.pngApplications are now open for the annual Lady Cardinal Mentorship Program, a four-week paid summer STEM enrichment program with government agencies in North Carolina. → Apply here
 
Scholarships to help 215 rural NC seniors and community college transfers who stay in-state

Apply for Golden LEAF Colleges and Universities Scholarships

GL-Scholarship.jpgThe Golden LEAF Colleges and Universities Scholarship application for the 2026-2027 academic year is now available. A total of 215 awards will be offered to first-time recipients from qualifying counties. Applications are due March 1. → Apply at CFNC.org
 
NCSSM is recruiting to help review Summer Ventures applicants in March 

Summer Ventures Application Reading

SVSM Reader Promo-1.jpgSince 1985, Summer Ventures has provided a free, four-week STEM research experience for high school students at UNC System campuses. Organizers are currently looking for volunteers to serve as Selection Readers for the 2026 admissions cycle. Readers will score applications, essays, and transcripts virtually via Zoom on March 9-10. Training is provided in advance. If you require CEUs or community service verification for your employer, documentation will be provided. Get involved
 
2026 NC Science Festival

Submit your STEM event(s) for 2026 NC Science Festival

sciefest.jpgNorth Carolina's biggest celebration of science happens every April with more than 500 virtual and in-person events scheduled throughout the state. Organizers are currently seeking proposals from those interested in hosting an event to get in on the fun this year. Use the link to submit your event today. And, of course, there are also ways for you to volunteer.  Submit here
 
 
Feb. 19-20, 2026

Science For All Summit

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Morehead Planetarium and Science Center will host the 2026 Science for All Summit on Feb. 19-20 in Chapel Hill.  More   
Feb. 24, 2026

Illuminating AI

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RENCI and other partners will host the second part of this investigative series virtually on Feb. 24 from noon to 1 p.m.  More  
April 7, 2026

Eggs & Issues 2026

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Join the Public School Forum on April 7 for an annual update on top education issues across the state.  More