Story submitted by OSU Communications

More than 150 junior high and high school students in science, technology, engineering and math will converge on Stillwater this spring to participate in the annual Oklahoma State Science and Engineering Fair.

The March 28-30 event is the first time Oklahoma State University will host the fair, which is moving from East Central University in Ada after more than 40 years. The fair allows students to present findings from their STEM research.

“Oklahoma State University is honored to host these top-notch students,” said OSU President Burns Hargis. “The need for students with the skills and interest to pursue STEM careers has never been greater.”

Dr. Julie Angle, an associate professor at OSU and coordinator of the science fair, said, “These students are Oklahoma’s best and brightest. As students prepare to compete in the science fair, they learn to break down and explain complex information at a level that the general audience can understand. These communication skills are critically important for students to learn.”

The seventh- through 12th-grade participants earned a trip to the state finals by placing in the top three at one of seven highly competitive regional fairs.

Students will present research in categories including biochemistry; medicine and health science; physical sciences; earth and space sciences; behavioral and social sciences; engineering; mathematics and computer science; environmental science; zoology; botany; and microbiology.

At least two projects from the state fair and one from each of the regional fairs will go to the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair this May in Phoenix.

Angle is excited for the opportunity this allows students.

“A science- and technology-educated workforce attracts quality companies, which in turn provide high-paying jobs,” Angle said. “Students who participate in the science fair have the potential of not just replenishing but strengthening the supply of Oklahoma STEM workers for decades. It is a great investment of time and energy that produces incredible rewards for our Oklahoma students and ultimately economic stability for the state of Oklahoma.”