If your child dreams of exploring the stars, improving others’ health and wellbeing, studying the complexities of living organisms, or uncovering Earth's secrets, inspire their passion for science, technology, engineering, mathematics and more at the 2026 Georgia STEM Day.

On Saturday, March 14, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Columbus State University’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center will host a day of interactive exploration. The free event, open to the public and sponsored by the Georgia Department of Education, is part of a statewide series in March that highlights ways for students to explore careers in STEM fields. It is designed specifically for middle and high school students to engage in hands-on activities while learning from college instructors and industry professionals.

“STEM involves creativity, problem-solving and coming up with new ideas that can change the world,” said Dr. Shawn Cruzen, the center’s executive director. “Our goal is to help students see themselves in these roles and understand the path to get there.”

Students and their families can take part in a variety of engaging STEM activities throughout the day, focused on:

• Space Exploration: Blast off with air rockets, view the stars through telescopes and attend presentations at the Omnisphere Planetarium.
• Robotics and Tech: Watch robotic demonstrations, experiment with 3D printing and interact with LEGO education, as well as students and faculty from Columbus State’s Robotics Engineering program.
• Health and Wellbeing: Discover the wonders of the human body through insights from Columbus State’s exercise science and nursing students and faculty.
• Science and Nature: Explore the natural world with animals from CSU’s Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center and participate in experiments with UV beads and planet masks.

While students explore their futures, parents and families can connect with college admissions counselors and financial aid professionals to prepare for the journey ahead. Representatives from Columbus State and local industry leaders will be on-site to provide:

• Expert assistance with completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and applying to college.
• Insights into studying and working in STEM fields such as computer science, nursing, Earth and space sciences, exercise science, and teacher education.
• Ways to connect with CSU’s community partners from Pratt & Whitney, Kia, Synovus and Smurfit WestRock.

Why work in STEM?

STEM encompasses a wide range of fields—from computer science and engineering to biology and mathematics—and offers diverse career options to suit various interests and skills. These careers often focus on solving real-world problems and advancing progress not only in science, technology, mathematics, and engineering, but also in other areas such as healthcare, manufacturing, environmental sustainability and business.

Employment in STEM is projected to grow significantly over the next decade, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting an 8% to 10% increase—far surpassing the 3% to 5% growth rate for non-STEM jobs. Beyond traditional roles in engineering and research, STEM education develops highly adaptable skills in analytical reasoning, structured problem-solving and data-driven decision-making that are becoming increasingly valuable in fields like finance, marketing and public policy. This flexibility makes STEM graduates highly desirable across nearly every sector of the global economy, as companies seek “future-proof” talent capable of navigating digital transformation and complex operational challenges.

Columbus State offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, minors and certificates in more than 15 STEM fields, as well as related areas such as business, education and health professions.

For more information about Georgia STEM Day and upcoming activities, visit the Coca-Cola Space Science Center’s website.