STEM Fest Returns to Fort Meade to Inspire the Next Generation of Innovators

Military families in the Fort Meade community can look forward to a day filled with exploration, creativity, and hands-on learning at the 2nd Annual STEM Fest, taking place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Baron J. DeKalb Reserve Center. 

Hosted by Blue Star Families, the Robert Irvine Foundation, and the Fort Meade Reserve Center, the event is designed specifically for military-connected youth, offering them a chance to explore STEMM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Medicine—through engaging activities and community connection.

Making STEM More Accessible for Military Families

For children in military families, educational continuity can be a challenge. Frequent relocations, deployments, and shifting school systems often interrupt learning, particularly in rapidly evolving fields like STEM. Events like STEM Fest aim to bridge that gap—by offering access to hands-on learning and exposure to real-world science and technology careers in a single, impactful day.

What’s in Store at This Year’s STEM Fest

This year’s event promises an exciting lineup for all ages. Among the highlights:

• Interactive STEM stations, where children can experiment with robotics, engineering kits, chemistry activities, and coding games.
  
  

• Drone demonstrations that showcase the practical applications of aerial technology.
  
  

• STEM book giveaways to keep the learning going long after the event ends.
  
  

• A special keynote by Dr. Judy Staveley, a nationally recognized STEMM leader and educator, who will speak about the importance of building inclusive, inspiring STEM pathways for all students—especially those from military families.
  
  

Families will also enjoy free lunch and refreshments, as well as access to STEM-focused community organizations offering educational support, mentorship opportunities, and take-home resources.

More Than a Festival—A Launchpad for the Future

While STEM Fest is just one day, its goals are long-term: to spark interest, build confidence, and plant seeds for future careers. Organizers hope the event serves as a stepping stone to sustained engagement—encouraging military-connected youth to explore everything from coding and space science to biotechnology and environmental engineering.

As the need for diverse talent in STEMM continues to grow, ensuring equitable access to these fields for military families is more important than ever.

STEM Fest is free and open to military families.
For more details, visit: https://neighborhood.bluestarfam.org/events/122175