AMES, Iowa – Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is seeking judges for the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa. Students in grades 6-12 will participate in the exhibition on March 27-28 at Hilton Coliseum in Ames.
The SSTFI is held annually to celebrate the achievements and innovations of students in science and engineering. The event gives students the opportunity to present their original research projects to judges and compete for awards, scholarships and trips at the regional, state and international levels while inspiring and encouraging students to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Alexa Groff, Iowa 4-H STEM education specialist and SSTFI director with ISU Extension and Outreach, said the expertise and insights of judges from the community are invaluable in evaluating and celebrating the students’ innovative projects.
The fair, which is Iowa’s largest STEM competition for youth, is set to feature over 650 participants showcasing more than a record-breaking 500 projects.
“We are thrilled to invite professionals and experts to serve as judges for the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa,” said Groff. “The expertise and insights from those with a science, medical, technology, teaching, engineering or math background are critical to inspiring the next generation of innovators and leaders. By joining us, you’ll have the unique opportunity to not only witness groundbreaking projects but also to mentor and encourage young minds eager to make a positive impact in our world.”
Many students report that the most important part of SSTFI is the interaction with judges. They get the opportunity to bounce their ideas off experts in the field. For some, this is their first chance to do so. Others may have worked in connection with a research lab or professional scientists, but this still allows them to present what they have done to someone who doesn’t already know about their project.
Individuals can sign up to judge for junior or senior high divisions. Judging registration will be from 7-8 a.m. on both days, with judges’ orientation starting at 8 a.m. at the ISU Alumni Center. An advanced degree or industry experience is preferred for judging senior high projects. No special training is required to be a judge, and lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Judges will evaluate the projects and provide constructive feedback to the students. Organizers will assign judges based on their category preferences, level of education, field of study and professional experience.
Project categories include biochemistry, biomedical and health, cellular and molecular biology, microbiology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, energy and transportation, physics and astronomy, computer science, robotics and intelligent machines, technology integrated in the arts, and animal, plant, food, earth and environmental, and behavioral and social sciences.
“With 17 project categories, judges are sure to find a field that aligns with their interests,” Groff said.
“It [SSTFI] is an amazing program that greatly impacts those potential young scientists,” said José González, an Iowa State research scientist in plant pathology, entomology and microbiology who previously judged at SSTFI. “It’s inspiring to see them [the youth] being curious about the world that surrounds them and develop hypotheses and test them.”
Toby Adjuik, an ISU Department of Agronomy research scientist, said he’s glad he signed up to judge in 2024. “The students worked hard on their projects and presented confidently, which is very encouraging to see at that young age. For most of the students, their depth of knowledge of science was just incredible. I have no doubt they will all become great scientists in their respective fields.”
“SSTFI is not only a competition but also a celebration of our students’ curiosity and ingenuity. It’s hard to experience the excitement of the two days and not be inspired,” Groff said. “Your expertise and dedication are invaluable in fostering the next generation of problem solvers and leaders. Together, we can spark a lifelong passion for STEM.”
Those who wish to volunteer as a judge can sign up online.
For more information, please visit the SSTFI website or contact Alexa Groff, SSTFI director, at 515-294-8848 or [email protected].
Shareable photo: Young innovators showcase their research projects to attentive judges at the 2024 State Science and Technology Fair.
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