Volunteer Opportunities
Judge at the STEM Fair
Who: Scientists, engineers, researchers, medical professionals, college students, or anyone with a STEM background
When: Friday, March 1st, 2024
9:45 AM - 12:30 PM
Where: RCTC Sports Center, 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904
Description: Offer feedback to 3-4 middle or high school students about their projects. Many students report that their favorite part of the STEM Fair experience is presenting their work to knowledgeable adults. Lunch will be provided at 12:30 PM.
More than 100 judges are needed at the STEM Fair. If you know you will attend, we encourage you to invite your colleagues. Thank you to all of our new and returning judges!
General Volunteer at the STEM Fair
Who: Any adults
When: Friday, March 1st, 2024
Shifts: 8:30-9:45 AM / 9:45 AM - 12:30 PM / 12:30 - 2:00 PM / 2:00-3:00 PM
Where: RCTC Sports Center, 851 30th Ave SE, Rochester, MN 55904
Description: Set up and tear down the space, greet judges and students, assist with the award ceremony, etc. Lunch will be provided at 12:30 PM.
Reviewer at Paper Presentations
Who: Any adults, especially those who have written research papers
When: Tuesday, February 27, 2024
5:30 - 8:30 PM
Where: Northrop Community Education Center, 201 8th St NW, Rochester, MN 55901
Description: Provide feedback on students' written and oral communication skills. Prior to the event, read research papers written by middle and high school students. During the event, observe students' presentations.
Friends of the STEM Fair
Who: Any adults
When: Monthly meetings
Where: Northrop Community Education Center, 201 8th St NW, Rochester, MN 55901
Description: Friends of the STEM Fair is a team of adults who volunteer their time to support the students, science teachers, and volunteers who participate in the STEM Fair. They help with the behind-the-scenes work that makes these experiences possible, including event planning, volunteer recruitment, and fundraising.
Past Opportunities
We connect youth with supportive adults year round. Please reach out if you would like to partner with the STEM Fair.
STEM Mentor
Who: Scientists, engineers, researchers, medical professionals, college students, or anyone with a STEM background
When: October 2023 - February 2024
Online: Flexible hours, 3-5 hours per month
In-Person: Every other week, 3-5 PM at a middle school in Rochester, MN
Description: Mentor 2-4 middle or high school students as they complete their STEM Fair projects. Help your mentees brainstorm ideas, navigate a project, and communicate their findings. This program is facilitated by Oraculi, a local non-profit organization.
Women in STEM Panelist
Female scientists spoke about their professional experiences. The session was followed by an opportunity for students to network with the panelists.
Workshop Facilitator
Brandon Hendrickson, founder of Science is WEIRD, engaged students in conversation and demonstrations about the potential of ChatGPT.
Scientific Review Committee (SRC)
Who: Scientists, engineers, researchers, medical professionals, college students, or anyone with a STEM background
When: Attend one or more meetings. 6-8 PM
October 10 (In person at Century High School)
October 24 (Virtual)
November 14 (In person at Century High School)
November 28 (Virtual)
Description: Provide feedback about high school students' project plans and evaluate potential risks. In addition to ensuring the safety of students, the SRC enables students to compete at the Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair and the Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair. Past volunteers have enjoyed directly interacting with students and providing advice early in their project process.
RSVP: Email SRC Chair Cheryl Moertel at chmoertel@rochesterschools.org