The future shows up early.
Students 13–19 turn ideas into real work — and get in front of the people and industries looking for what's next.
115 markets
attendees (2026)
STEM careers
& partners
events
One stage. Two sides.
The National STEM Festival puts emerging talent in the same room as the people shaping what's next.
Build skills.
Show your work.
Get seen.
Take on real projects. Learn from the people already doing the work. Put it on a national stage.
See talent first.
Meet the innovators before anyone else. See the skills and ideas taking shape — and back the work early.
Workforce investment starts early. We're building the next generation of innovators — before pathways narrow and opportunity becomes uneven.— Jenny Buccos FRSA, Festival Director
See the work.
Student builders and the industry mentors who work in their field — real problems, real hands-on making, one story at a time.
► Watch
Manufacturing Has Changed
With Kurt Helison — on why modern manufacturing is bright, clean, and creative.
Watch →
► Watch
Keep Pursuing It
With David Berry — on the craft behind every man-made thing, and the obsession that changes the world.
Watch →
Coming soonSoftening the Impact
New episode joining the Dear Future Builder series shortly.
Beyond the Festival.
Powered by EXPLR, the Festival continues year-round through verified credentials, career content, and hands-on learning for schools and communities.