The Southern Arizona Science and Engineering Fair took center stage at the University of Arizona last week, with hundreds of high schoolers filling the student union ballroom for the annual event.

Display boards stood like beacons of discovery, each showcasing a student’s dedication to STEM. This year’s projects reflected a generation deeply committed to environmental solutions and shaping a sustainable future, indicating that the next wave of STEM professionals is ready to take on the challenge.

The fair brought together 500 high school students from across the state, offering a platform for them to demonstrate their research and passion for solving real-world problems and receive feedback from industry experts.

The event was not just about judging the projects; it was also a celebration of youthful curiosity, creativity, and the critical skills these students are honing for their future careers.

One of the key trends at SARSEF this year was the overwhelming focus on climate change and environmental sustainability. Many students presented innovative solutions to climate-related issues, ranging from renewable energy technologies to new methods of waste reduction and conservation.

Chelsea Bowdren, development manager at SARSEF, shared her deep admiration for the students’ commitment and intellectual curiosity.

“What’s fascinating is that the projects 70 years ago were groundbreaking, and because of that research, we’re able to continue seeing groundbreaking research today,” she said. “We know we wouldn’t be where we are without having been where we’ve been.”

This trend reflects a broader shift in the interests of the younger generation, who are not only passionate about environmental issues but are also eager to make a tangible difference.

SARSEF isn’t just about showcasing scientific projects; it’s also about empowering students to grow as confident communicators and effective problem-solvers. Throughout the judging process, students had the opportunity to present their projects to professionals and experts in various fields, an experience that helped them develop vital presentation and communication skills.

For many, this was a valuable opportunity to receive constructive feedback that could help shape their future careers. As these students shared their ideas, they gained confidence in their ability to navigate the professional world.

“Judging at SARSEF is about more than just reviewing projects—it’s about inspiring the next generation of scientists and STEM professionals,” said Paulina Soto Robles, SARSEF’s judging chair. “It’s about encouraging them to pursue their passions and showing them that they belong in STEM.”

Students had the opportunity to connect with keynote speakers and network with peers from other schools, including retired Air Force Col. Carey “Mamba” Jones. Engaging with STEM professionals and industry leaders gave them valuable insight into various career paths and the skills needed to succeed in the field.

The fair also continued its emphasis on empowering young women to pursue careers in engineering and other traditionally male-dominated fields, with this year’s event placing a strong focus on encouraging women to break barriers and follow their passions.

Jones shared her experiences of overcoming challenges as a woman in the military, emphasizing how perseverance and quick thinking were crucial to her success. She highlighted the importance of mastering mathematics and rapid calculations—skills that proved essential in high-stakes situations throughout her career.

“Students are walking in so professionally but with excitement. They’re championing each other, curious about what their neighbors are doing,” Bowdren said. “It’s been fun to see new friendships being made, as well as potential future research partnerships. There’s magic happening, and it’s a really cool thing to see.”

The event also included a career fair that offered students the opportunity to explore various job prospects and higher education opportunities in fields like engineering, healthcare, and technology.

Organizations including the University of Arizona’s Astrobiology Center, College of Engineering, College of Public Health, and Tucson Electric Power were all present to share information and connect with the students.

Elaine Gutenstein, a longtime donor and volunteer, shared her admiration for the students, particularly in terms of their diversity and empowerment.

“When we leave SARSEF every year after reviewing the projects and talking to the students, it gives me so much hope for the future,” she said. “The energy, the drive, the passion—the ‘I can do it’ attitude—it’s clear that these students are ready to change the world.”

The success of SARSEF is deeply rooted in the community that supports it. Volunteers, donors, and professionals all come together to nurture these students’ intellectual curiosity and help them grow into the next generation of scientists and engineers.

“It’s really cool to see how far we’ve come and to support this award, especially with our kids knowing it’s four generations deep,” said Gutenstein, reflecting on her great-uncle’s scholarship for women in engineering.

For many students, the event was an opportunity to gain insight into potential career paths, connect with professionals in their chosen fields, and develop the confidence to pursue a future in STEM.

Pima Community College Program Coordinator John Farrell said local colleges play an important role in preparing students for STEM careers.

“At Pima, we’re all about learning, research, and moving science forward. Our mission is to meet our learners where they are and help them get to where they want to go,” Farrell said.

For students who are interested in healthcare, Tiffany Bedford from El Rio Health Center’s Arizona Area Health Education Centers talked about the importance of diversifying the healthcare workforce and connecting students with opportunities.

“Our mission is to diversify and increase the healthcare workforce, which is something we really need in Arizona,” Bedford said. “It’s great to see them getting involved with the opportunities we have available.”

Amber Folkman, another SARSEF supporter, reflected on the growth of the event and its impact on the Tucson community.

“SARSEF has just continued to grow and become a part of the community and culture of Tucson and Southern Arizona,” Folkman said. “It’s remarkable to see how it has become such a staple, with representation from Yuma to Douglas and beyond.”

The SARSEF event highlights the potential of the next generation of scientists and engineers. As these students continue to pursue their passions and hone their skills, they hope to make significant contributions to the world of STEM and beyond.

For many students, the fair was not just a one-time event but the beginning of a lifelong journey in STEM.

“These students are taking their work very seriously. They care deeply about what they’re doing, and you can see it in how they present themselves. They show up as professionals, as scientists, to communicate their science and their wonderings,” Folkman said.

SARSEF is committed to continuing to be a catalyst for change, empowering students to pursue their dreams, solve pressing global issues, and shape the world for generations to come.

“My hope for the future of SARSEF is that we continue engaging with as many students as possible, building authentic connections, and creating opportunities for further research,” Bowdren said. “And next year, we might have even more students—maybe 600!”

Angelina Maynes is a University of Arizona alum and reporter with Tucson Spotlight. Contact her at angelinamaynes@arizona.edu.

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