Weather was not the only thing hot about the State Fair on the final Sunday. So was STEM. Thousands of fairgoers engaged in experiential learning amidst corn dogs, carnival rides and cattle contests at STEM Day at the Iowa State Fair. Hands-on STEM activities were a draw on the Grand Concourse including bubble science, engineering circuit challenges, chemistry experiments, a Blue Origin New Shepard crew capsule replica, robotics and much more.
“Attending STEM Day at the Iowa State Fair is a highlight of our community outreach events each year,” said Jeff Margrett, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) regional director for Iowa and Nebraska. “We bring approximately 10 FIRST teams ranging from first grade through high school to share what they've done and show off our program. The teams have always enjoyed the excitement of the Fair, the people they meet and the visit from the governor. The Governor’s STEM Advisory Council really does a great job showcasing the amazing programs bringing STEM concepts to life in Iowa.”
STEM performances were held on the MidAmerican Energy Stage featuring Blank Park Zoo, Blue Origin, Iowa State University Insect Zoo, the Science Center of Iowa and Nutcracker Ballet + STEM.
The six recipients of the 2023 Iowa STEM Teacher Award, sponsored by Kemin Industries, were recognized on the stage along with remarks from Gov. Kim Reynolds, Jeff Weld with the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council at the Iowa Department of Education, Kemin Industries Vice President and General Counsel Libby Nelson, Google Regional Head of Public Policy and External Affairs Dan Harbeke and Foundation Analytical Laboratory Owner and Director of Technical Services and the Governor’s STEM Advisory Council Co-Chair Diane Young.
STEM Day at the Iowa State Fair was sponsored by Alliant Energy, Collins Aerospace, Google and MidAmerican Energy.