If you’re a student wanting a taste of engineering—or a mentor looking to inspire the next generation of innovators—you don’t have to look far for exciting opportunities! Events are popping up year-round across Maine and beyond geared towards students of all ages. Whether you’re just getting introduced to STEM or plan to pursue a degree in engineering, attending events is a fantastic way to explore new interests, meet professionals and mentors, gain hands-on experience, and boost your college and career opportunities!

If you’re ready for some fun, here are a handful of upcoming events to add to your calendar. (You might even run into us there!)

 

Engineering Week Expo

📅March 8, 2025
📍Orono, ME – University of Maine Field House

Ignite your imagination with this free, family-friendly event! Parents, kids, and community members are invited to University of Maine’s Field House to explore exhibits showcasing innovations that are shaping our world. Learn more here: https://www.engineeringme.com/expo/

 

Maine Science Festival

📅 March 19-23, 2025
📍 Multiple Locations in Bangor, ME

The Maine Science Festival is a five-day celebration of science and innovation. Engage in workshops, watch live demonstrations, and connect with STEM professionals from a variety of industries. With 70+ activities, there will be something for students of all ages. Learn more here: https://www.mainesciencefestival.org/

 

Maine State Science Fair

📅 March 29, 2025
📍 Biddeford, ME – University of New England

The Maine State Science Fair is the perfect place to show off your scientific and engineering skills. At this statewide event, students will compete against other young scientists, present projects, and can even qualify for scholarships and national competitions! MSSF is open to all students from all public, private, parochial and home schools (grades 9-12) throughout Maine. Learn more here: https://www.maine-statescience-fair.com/

 

Maine Science Olympiad

📅 April 12, 2025
📍 Orono, ME – University of Maine

Put your STEM skills to the test in this exciting, team-based competition. The Maine Science Olympiad challenges students in 23 events ranging across scientific disciplines—from engineering and physics to chemistry and biology. As part of this nationwide STEM event, middle and high school students work as a team to solve complex problems and compete against other bright minds. Learn more here: https://scilympiad.com/me

 

Trades for ME

📅 Waterville, Presque Isle, and Lewiston, ME
📍 April 11, April 14, and May 29, 2025

Interested in learning about technical careers, including engineering and advanced manufacturing? This event provides hands-on experiences, networking with industry leaders, and opportunities to explore different career paths in the trades and STEM fields. Learn more about upcoming events here: https://tradesforme.org/events/

 

Maine Middle School Science & Engineering Fair

📅 May 21, 2025
📍 Orono, ME – Orono High School

This fair encourages Maine middle school students to dive into scientific inquiry and engineering design. Show off your projects, hear from judges, and see what other young innovators are working on. Learn more here: https://mmsa.org/projects/maine-middleschool-science-fair/

 

Wicked STEM – Northern New England STEM Expo

📅 September 2025 – Date TBD
📍 Location TBD

This Northern New England STEM expo brings students, educators, and industry professionals together to spark curiosity and excitement in STEM careers. From hands-on activities to internship discussions, this event caters to a range of ages, elementary and beyond.

 

Thinking About an Engineering Career?

The University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation (UMPPF) is here to support aspiring engineers! We offer full and partial scholarships for students interested in chemical, civil, computer, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Through our Consider Engineering summer program, industry connections, and so much more, we help students launch successful careers in STEM.