Where We Visit
- We serve schools within a one-hour drive of Lincoln or Omaha.
- If your school is outside that range, we’ll consider travel based on availability and scheduling.
- Virtual visits are available for schools we’re unable to visit in person—just note this in the comments section of your request form.
Who We Send
Each visit includes two or more Engineering Ambassadors—enthusiastic undergraduate students from the College of Engineering who are trained in communication and leadership. We work with grades K–12 and tailor every visit to the age group and learning goals of your students.
What We Present
- Classroom visits typically include a 10–15 minute engaging, story-driven presentation on an exciting engineering topic.
- See our list of presentation topics
- Topic grade levels are suggestions—we’re happy to adapt based on your needs!
- Presentations can be delivered to:
- Individual classrooms
- Large groups or assemblies (presentation with Q&A, no hands-on activity)
- We also offer a presentation called "My College of Engineering Experience"—a personal story from one of our Ambassadors about their path to and through engineering college life.
- Best for upper middle or high school students who are curious about college or STEM careers.
- In addition to presentations, we’re available to staff a table at STEM fairs or community events, where we’ll lead an engaging hands-on activity—no formal presentation required.
Hands-On Activities
- Most classroom visits include a related interactive activity to reinforce engineering concepts.
- Ideal class size: 15–30 students, but we’ve accommodated groups of up to 100 with additional support from school staff.
- For STEM fairs or tabling events, we bring a standalone activity that engages students of all ages in informal learning.
What You Provide
To keep things simple, we ask that you provide:
- A computer with PowerPoint or Google Slides, a projector, sound, and internet access
We’ll bring everything else!
Time Commitment
- Most visits fit within a standard class period, but we are flexible depending on your schedule and needs.
Cost
Our visits are free of charge. We’re here to educate, inspire, and support the next generation of engineers and problem-solvers.
Presentation Topics & Descriptions
Aquaponics
Aquaponics: Farming for the Future
What students will learn:
This presentation introduces students to aquaponics—a sustainable farming system that combines aquaculture (raising fish) and hydroponics (growing plants in water). Students will explore how engineers design and optimize these systems, why aquaponics is beneficial for the environment, and how it could shape the future of agriculture.
Why it matters:
Aquaponics offers a real-world example of how engineering supports food production, sustainability, and innovation—all while conserving resources.
Activity:
This topic does not include a hands-on activity. However, it’s a great companion presentation for classrooms already working on an aquaponics project or exploring sustainable agriculture.
Recommended for:
Elementary to Middle School
NE Science Standards:
SC.K.7.2.A | SC.1.6.2.B | SC.2.3.1.C | SC.3.7.2.C | SC.5.8.2.C | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.7.3.B |
SC.K.7.2.B |
| SC.2.3.1.D | SC.3.7.2.D | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.9.3.B | SC.7.7.3.C |
SC.K.12.3.E |
| SC.2.7.SC.2.C | SC.3.7.2.E |
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| SC.7.8.4.D |
Bridges
Bridges: Engineering Strength and Structure
What students will learn:
In this presentation, students will explore the fundamental forces within bridges—including compression, tension, flexion, torsion, and shear—and how engineers design around them. They’ll learn about three major types of bridges: beam, truss, and suspension, and gain insight into the types of engineers involved in bridge design, construction, and innovation.
Why it matters:
Bridges are everywhere—and they rely on math, science, and creativity. This presentation helps students see how physics and engineering work together to solve real-world problems.
Activity:
Students will design, build, and test their own bridges using straws, applying the concepts they just learned to create structures that balance strength and design.
Recommended for:
Upper Elementary to High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.2.1.B | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B | SC.HS.1.1.A | SC.HSP.1.1.B |
SC.3.1.1.B. | SC.4.4.2.D |
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| SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C | SC.HS.1.1.B | SC.HSP.1.1.D |
SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.4.2.E |
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| SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.4.3.A | SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.16.4.G |
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| SC.HS. 15.5.D | |
Buoyancy and Boats
Buoyancy and Boats: Why Things Float
What students will learn:
This presentation dives into the physics of buoyancy and explores how it affects whether an object sinks or floats. Students will learn about the history and evolution of boats, the science behind flotation, and the variety of boat designs used throughout the world.
Why it matters:
Understanding buoyancy connects science to everyday life—and shows how engineers apply physics to build floating structures that carry people, goods, and even entire cities on water.
Activity:
Students will put their design skills to the test by building foil boats and competing to see whose boat can hold the most pennies without sinking!
Recommended for:
Elementary or Middle School
NE Science Standards:
SC.K.1.1.A | SC.1.6.2.B | SC.2.3.1.A | SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.D | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B |
SC.K.1.1.B |
| SC.2.3.1.B | SC.3.1.1.B | SC.4.4.2.E |
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| SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C |
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| SC.2.3.1.C | SC.3.7.2.E |
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| SC.7.7.3.D |
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| SC.2.3.1.D |
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Clean Water
Clean Water: Engineering a Healthier World
What students will learn:
This presentation explores the critical importance of clean water and how engineers help ensure safe water access around the world. Students will examine historical and modern water filtration methods, current global challenges, and how engineering innovation plays a key role in solving water-related issues for the future.
Why it matters:
Access to clean water is a global challenge—and engineers are at the heart of creating sustainable, life-saving solutions.
Activity:
Students will apply what they’ve learned by designing and testing their own water filters, simulating how engineers tackle real-world problems.
Recommended for:
Upper Elementary, Middle, or High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.K.7.2.B | SC.2.3.1.A | SC.3.7.2.D | 4.2.1.B | SC.5.3.1.A | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B | SC.HS.15.5.D | SC.HSP.16.4.G |
SC.K.12.3.E | SC.2.3.1.B | SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.4.2.D | SC.5.3.1.C | SC.6.13.5.A | SC.7.5.2.D |
| SC.HS.15.5.E | |
| SC.2.3.1.C |
| SC.4.4.2.E | SC.5.13.4.C |
| SC.7.7.3.C |
| SC.HS.13.3.D | |
| SC.2.3.1.D |
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| SC.5.13.4.D |
| SC.7.7.3.D |
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| SC.5.13.4.E |
| SC.7.8.4.E |
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| SC.7.14.6.C |
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Earthquakes and Structures
Earthquakes and Structures: Engineering for Stability
What students will learn:
Students will explore the science behind earthquakes, including the different types of seismic waves and how they impact the Earth's surface. They'll discover how engineers apply physics and design strategies to build structures that can withstand seismic forces and help protect lives.
Why it matters:
Earthquakes are unpredictable and powerful—but with smart design, engineers can reduce damage and save lives. This presentation connects science, engineering, and safety in a hands-on, memorable way.
Activity:
Students will use toothpicks and marshmallows to design model buildings, then test them on a real shake table to see how their structures hold up during a simulated earthquake!
Recommended for:
Upper Elementary, Middle School, or High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.2.3.1.A | SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.C | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B | SC.HS.1.1.A-C | SC.HSP.1.1.B |
SC.2.3.1.B | SC.3.1.1.B | SC.4.4.2.D |
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| SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C | SC.HS.13.3.C | SC.HSP.1.1.D |
SC.2.3.1.C | SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.4.2.E |
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| SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.4.3.A | SC.HS.5.5.E |
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SC.2.3.1.D |
| SC.4.4.2.F |
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| SC.7.14.6.A |
| SC.HS.13.3.A | |
SC.2.13.3.A |
| SC.4.13.4.D |
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| SC.7.14.6.C |
| SC.HS.15.5.E | |
Flight
Flight: Engineering the Sky
What students will learn:
This presentation introduces students to the four forces of flight—lift, thrust, gravity, and drag—and how engineers work to balance and control these forces to make aircraft fly. Students will also explore the Bernoulli Principle and learn about the various types of engineers involved in designing and building airplanes.
Why it matters:
Flight is one of the most fascinating and complex feats of engineering. By understanding the science behind it, students gain insight into how engineers turn the impossible into everyday reality.
Activity:
Students will design and build their own O-wing gliders, then test and refine their creations by applying what they’ve learned about flight. They'll experiment with improving lift and minimizing drag to optimize their glider’s performance.
Recommended for:
Elementary, Middle School, or High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.K.1.1.A | SC.2.3.1.A | SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.A | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.A | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B | SC.HS.1.1.A-D | SC.HSP.1.1.B |
SC.K.1.1.B | SC.2.3.1.B | SC.3.1.1.B | SC.4.4.2.B |
| SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C | SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.1.1.B |
SC.K.12.3.E | SC.2.3.1.C | SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.4.2.C |
| SC.6.4.1.D | SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.1.1.E | SC.HS.15.5.E | SC.HSP.1.1.C |
| SC.2.3.1.D |
| SC.4.4.2.D |
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| SC.8.1.1.F |
| SC.HSP.1.1.D |
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| SC.4.4.2.E |
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| SC.8.4.3.A |
| SC.HSP.16.4.G |
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| SC.4.4.2.F |
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| SC.8.4.3.B |
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Genetic Engineering
Genetic Engineering: Designing Life with Chemistry
What students will learn:
In this presentation, students will explore the world of genetic engineering and how chemistry and biology are used to create new food products and solve real-world problems. Topics include DNA structure, gene expression, and the cutting-edge applications of genetic engineering in fields like agriculture and medicine. Students will also learn about the engineers and scientists who make these breakthroughs possible.
Why it matters:
Genetic engineering is shaping the future of food, health, and sustainability. This topic shows how science and engineering intersect to innovate responsibly and improve lives.
Activity:
Students will perform a hands-on DNA extraction experiment using wheat germ, allowing them to see real DNA and understand how scientists work at the molecular level.
Recommended for:
Middle and High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.9.4.A | SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.16.4.G |
SC.7.5.2.D | SC.8.9.4.B | SC.HS.3.3.D | SC.HSP.4.2.D |
SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.10.5.C | SC.HS.6.1.A |
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SC.7.8.4.E |
| SC.HS.9.4.A |
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| SC.HS.15.5.E |
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Geodesic Domes
Geodesic Domes: Building Strength Through Shape
What students will learn:
In this fun and hands-on presentation, students will explore the history and science of domes, with a focus on geodesic structures—lightweight, incredibly strong designs made from repeating triangles. They’ll learn how forces are distributed in dome structures, why equilibrium is essential, and how engineers use geometry and physics to design stable, efficient buildings.
Why it matters:
Geodesic domes are not just cool structures—they’re examples of how engineering uses shapes, balance, and creativity to solve real-world design challenges.
Activity:
Students will use gumdrops and toothpicks to design and build their own domes, testing their creations for stability. Just like in the real world, if the structure isn’t balanced, it might collapse!
Recommended for:
Upper Elementary to Middle School
NE Science Standards:
SC.3.1.1.A | 4.2.1.B | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B |
SC.3.1.1.B | SC.4.4.2.D |
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| SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C |
SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.4.2.E |
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| SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.4.3.A |
Green Buildings
Green Buildings: Engineering a Sustainable Future
What students will learn:
This presentation explores the history and evolution of green buildings, with a focus on how they conserve energy, reduce waste, and promote a healthier environment. Students will learn about LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification levels and discover how engineers are innovating building design to make structures more sustainable, efficient, and Earth-friendly.
Why it matters:
Buildings use a significant portion of our energy and resources. Understanding how engineers create eco-friendly designs helps students see how engineering plays a key role in building a more sustainable world.
Activity:
Students will be challenged to design and build their own model green buildings, applying key principles of energy efficiency, sustainability, and creative problem-solving.
Recommended for:
Middle or High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.2.3.1.A | SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.C | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B | SC.HS.1.1.A-C | SC.HSP.1.1.B |
SC.2.3.1.B | SC.3.1.1.B | SC.4.4.2.D |
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| SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C | SC.HS.13.3.C | SC.HSP.1.1.D |
SC.2.3.1.C | SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.4.2.E |
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| SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.4.3.A | SC.HS.5.5.E |
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SC.2.3.1.D |
| SC.4.4.2.F |
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| SC.7.14.6.A |
| SC.HS.13.3.A | |
SC.2.13.3.A |
| SC.4.13.4.D |
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| SC.7.14.6.C |
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Music Engineering
Music Engineering: The Science of Sound and Instruments
What students will learn:
Students explore how musical instruments produce sound and learn about the mechanics of sound waves—including vibration, pitch, and frequency. They’ll also discover how engineers contribute to instrument design, sound technology, and the music industry.
Why it matters:
This presentation blends creativity and science, helping students understand how engineering and physics are essential to the music they hear and create.
Activity:
Students will apply their understanding of sound waves by designing and constructing their own musical instruments using materials such as boxes, rubber bands, straws, tape, and more.
Recommended for:
Upper Elementary, Middle and High School
NE Science Standards:
SC 4.3.2 | SC 8.2.3.a | SC HS.2.2.A |
| SC 8.2.3.b | SC HS.4.4.B |
| SC 8.2.3.f |
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My College of Engineering Experience
My College of Engineering Experience: A Student’s Perspective
What students will learn:
In this personal and informal presentation, an Engineering Ambassador shares their unique journey as a student at the University of Nebraska’s College of Engineering.
Students will hear firsthand about:
- Why they chose engineering
- What their classes, projects, and internships are like
- Clubs, research opportunities, and campus life
- What it's really like to be an engineering student
Why it matters:
This presentation gives students a real-world glimpse into college life, especially valuable for those curious about engineering majors or considering STEM careers. It’s also a great opportunity for Q&A about college readiness, challenges, and opportunities.
Activity:
This presentation is discussion-based and does not include a hands-on activity, but students are encouraged to ask questions and engage in conversation.
Recommended for:
Upper Middle School and High School
Prosthetics
Prosthetics: Engineering Movement and Meaning
What students will learn:
In this presentation, students explore the world of prosthetics—why they matter, how they’ve evolved, and the science and engineering behind how they work. They'll learn about:
- The history of prosthetics
- The materials and mechanics involved in modern designs
- How the brain and motor control connect to prosthetic function
- Cutting-edge advancements like innervation, implanted sensors, and osseointegration
- The psychological and emotional impact of prosthetic use Students will also discover the wide range of engineers and scientists who collaborate to create devices that restore movement and improve lives.
Why it matters:
Prosthetics are a powerful example of engineering that’s both highly technical and deeply human—blending compassion, creativity, and problem-solving to help people regain independence and confidence.
Activity:
Students will design and build their own prosthetic leg—for a human or even a teddy bear—using craft materials to explore structure, stability, and usability.
Recommended for:
Upper Elementary or Middle School
NE Science Standards:
SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.E | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B | SC.HS.1.1.A | SC.HSP.17.1.B |
SC.3.1.1.B. | SC.4.6.3.B |
| SC.6.6.2.A | SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C | SC.HS.1.1.B | SC.HSP.6.4.F |
SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.6.3.C |
| SC.6.6.2.B | SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.4.3.A | SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.6.5.F |
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| SC.6.6.2.D |
| SC.8.4.3.B | SC.HS.15.5.D | |
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| SC.HS.15.5.E | |
Rocket Propulsion
Rocket Propulsion: Launching into Engineering
What students will learn:
In this high-energy presentation, students will explore the science and engineering behind rockets—how they work, why they matter, and the incredible impact they've had on technology, space exploration, and daily life. They'll learn how rocket components work together to overcome gravity and get a glimpse into the future of space travel through the eyes of engineers working on the next generation of rockets.
Why it matters:
Rocketry combines physics, chemistry, and innovation—and it's opening new frontiers in exploration, communication, and transportation. Students will see how engineers use problem-solving and creativity to push beyond Earth's boundaries.
Activity:
Students will design and launch their own straw rockets using a pneumatic launcher, which uses compressed air created by a falling weighted rod to generate thrust. The challenge? Design a rocket that travels the farthest distance. Students will test, measure, and adjust their rockets to improve performance through trial and error.
Recommended for:
Upper Elementary, Middle, or High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.K.1.1.A | SC.1.6.2.B | SC.2.3.1.A | SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.A | SC.5.11.3.A | SC.6.4.1.A | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B | SC.HS.1.1.A-D | SC.HSP.1.1.B |
SC.K.1.1.B |
| SC.2.3.1.B | SC.3.1.1.B | SC.4.4.2.B | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C | SC.HS.4.4.C | SC.HSP.1.1.B |
SC.K.12.3.E |
| SC.2.3.1.C | SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.4.2.C |
| SC.6.4.1.D | SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.1.1.E | SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.1.1.C |
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| SC.2.3.1.D |
| SC.4.4.2.D |
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| SC.8.1.1.F | SC.HS.15.5.E | SC.HSP.1.1.D |
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| SC.4.4.2.E |
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| SC.8.4.3.A |
| SC.HSP.16.4.G |
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| SC.4.4.2.F |
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| SC.8.4.3.B |
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Roller Coaster Engineering
Roller Coaster Engineering: The Thrill of Design
What students will learn:
This presentation takes students on a ride through the physics and engineering behind roller coasters. They’ll explore concepts like potential and kinetic energy, gravity, friction, and acceleration, all while learning how engineers use these principles to create safe and exciting rides.
Why it matters:
Roller coasters are a fun and relatable way to show how STEM is applied in real-world design. Students discover how engineers blend science, safety, and creativity to build thrilling experiences.
Activity:
Students will apply engineering principles by designing and constructing their own roller coasters using foam tubing, masking tape, and marbles. They’ll experiment with track layouts and test how the marble travels through their course, refining their designs to improve speed, stability, and smoothness of motion.
Recommended for:
All Ages (adaptable by grade level)
NE Science Standards:
SC.K.1.1.A | SC.1.6.2.B | SC.2.3.1.A | SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.A | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.A | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B | SC.HS.1.1.A-D | SC.HSP.1.1.B |
SC.K.1.1.B |
| SC.2.3.1.B | SC.3.1.1.B | SC.4.4.2.B |
| SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C | SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.1.1.B |
SC.K.12.3.E |
| SC.2.3.1.C | SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.4.2.C |
| SC.6.4.1.D | SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.1.1.E |
| SC.HSP.1.1.C |
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| SC.2.3.1.D |
| SC.4.4.2.D |
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| SC.8.1.1.F |
| SC.HSP.1.1.D |
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| SC.4.4.2.E |
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| SC.8.4.3.A |
| SC.HSP.16.4.G |
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| SC.4.4.2.F |
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| SC.8.4.3.B |
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Recycling
Recycling: Engineering a Sustainable Tomorrow
What students will learn:
This presentation offers an inside look at how recycling works and the engineering innovations behind it. Students will explore how different materials—plastic, paper, metals, and glass—are processed and sorted, and understand the environmental and economic benefits of recycling.
Why it matters:
Recycling plays a critical role in reducing waste and conserving resources. Learning about the engineering involved helps students appreciate the complexity and importance of sustainable systems.
Activity:
Student teams use the engineering design process to turn “trash” into treasure. With limited supplies like duct tape, glue, and string, they’ll build a useful product from a classroom “landfill” of clean recyclables—cardboard, cans, juice boxes, chip bags, and more. This hands-on challenge sparks creativity, highlights sustainability, and shows how engineers solve real-world problems with limited resources.
Note: This activity requires that you collect clean, food-free recyclables in advance. Place a bin in the classroom a few weeks before the activity so students can contribute items they would normally recycle or throw away.
Recommended for:
Upper Elementary to Middle School
NE Science Standards:
SC.2.3.1.A | SC.5.3.1.C | SC.7.7.3.D | SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.4.3.D |
SC.2.3.1.B | SC.5.3.1.D |
| SC.HS.15.5.E | SC.HSP.16.4.G |
SC.2.3.1.D | SC.5.13.4.E |
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Rube Goldberg Machines
Rube Goldberg Machines: Chain Reactions and Creative Engineering
What students will learn:
This presentation introduces students to the world of Rube Goldberg Machines, exploring their history and the physics concepts they demonstrate—such as conservation of energy, conservation of momentum, and simple machines. It also emphasizes the importance of creativity and collaboration in engineering.
Why it matters:
Designing a Rube Goldberg machine helps students understand cause-and-effect relationships, energy transfer, and the engineering design process—all while encouraging teamwork and imaginative problem-solving.
Activity:
Working in teams, students will design, build, and test their own simple Rube Goldberg machines to complete a basic task through a series of chain reactions. Materials may include cups, marbles, string, craft sticks, pipe cleaners, and other creative supplies.
Time Required:
Please allow 1–2 hours for this topic to provide ample time for planning, building, and testing.
Recommended for:
Middle School or High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.3.1.1.A | 4.2.1.B | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.A | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B | SC.HS.1.1.A-D | SC.HSP.1.1.A |
SC.3.1.1.B | SC.4.4.2 |
| SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C |
| SC.HSP.1.1.B |
SC.3.7.2.E |
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| SC.6.4.1.D | SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.1.1.E |
| SC.HSP.1.1.C |
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| SC.8.1.1.F |
| SC.HSP.1.1.D |
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| SC.8.4.3.A |
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| SC.8.4.3.B |
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Solar Energy
Solar Energy: Powering the Future
What students will learn:
This presentation explores how solar energy is captured and converted into electricity using solar panels. Students will learn about renewable energy, the benefits of solar power, and the types of engineers who design and develop solar technologies.
Why it matters:
With the world increasingly shifting toward sustainable energy solutions, understanding solar technology gives students insight into real-world engineering challenges and innovations that are shaping the future.
Activity:
Students will design and build model solar-powered cars using photovoltaic panels and motors, then test them under sunlight or strong artificial light to observe how solar energy can be harnessed to create mechanical motion.
Recommended for:
Middle School
NE Science Standards:
SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.(A-F) | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.A | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1 | SC.HS.1.1.A-E | SC.HSP.1.1.B | SC.HSP4.3.D |
SC.3.1.1.B |
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| SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.2.2.C | SC.HS.4.4.C | SC.HSP.1.1.B | SC.HSP.16.4.C |
SC.3.1.1.C |
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| SC.6.4.1.C | SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.4.3 | SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.1.1.C | SC.HSP16.4.D |
SC.3.7.2.E |
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| SC.6.4.1.D | SC.7.8.4.E |
| SC.HS.15.5.D | SC.HSP.1.1.D | SC.HSP.16.4.G |
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| SC.7.13.5.C |
| SC.HS.15.5.E | SC.HSP.4.3.B | |
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| SC.HSP4.3.C |
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Surgical Robotics
Surgical Robotics: How Robots Help Save Lives
What students will learn:
In this presentation, students will learn the basics of robotics—what robots are, how they work, and how they are used in surgery. The session will highlight how engineers design and build surgical robots that help doctors perform procedures with greater precision and control.
Why it matters:
Surgical robotics is one of the many exciting ways engineers contribute to healthcare. This presentation shows students how technology and teamwork are used to solve real-world medical challenges.
Activity:
Students will get a chance to simulate surgical tasks using real laparoscopic training kits and design fun challenges for each other—getting a feel for the precision and focus surgeons need.
Recommended for:
Middle School and High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.D | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1 | SC.HS.1.1.A-D | SC.HSP.1.1.B | SC.HSP.16.4.C |
SC.3.1.1.B | SC.4.4.2.E |
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| SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.2.2.C | SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.1.1.B | SC.HSP16.4.D |
SC.3.7.2.E |
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| SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.4.3.A | SC.HS.7.2.F | SC.HSP.1.1.C | SC.HSP.16.4.G |
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| SC.8.4.3.B | SC.HS.15.5.D | SC.HSP.1.1.D | |
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| SC.HS.15.5.E |
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Tissue Engineering
Tissue Engineering: Building the Future of Medicine
What students will learn:
Students will explore how biology and engineering come together in the field of tissue engineering. They’ll learn about the role of stem cells, how they are sourced, and how they can be used to regenerate or replace damaged tissues. The presentation also introduces the engineers and researchers working to turn science fiction into medical reality.
Why it matters:
From repairing hearts to growing skin and cartilage, tissue engineering has the potential to transform healthcare. By learning about this emerging field, students gain insight into how engineering innovations can directly improve quality of life and open up exciting medical possibilities.
Activity:
Students will take on a biomedical design challenge by creating and testing a model heart valve. This hands-on experience introduces the design process and problem-solving skills used in real-world tissue engineering.
Recommended for:
Middle School or High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.E | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B | SC.HS.1.1.A | SC.HSP.17.1.B |
SC.3.1.1.B. | SC.4.6.3.B |
| SC.6.SC.6.2.A | SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.9.4.B | SC.HS.1.1.B | SC.HSP.16.4.G |
SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.6.3.A |
| SC.6.SC.6.2.B | SC.7.7.3.D |
| SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.7.2.D |
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| SC.HS.15.5.E | SC.HSP.7.2.E |
Video Games and Coding
Video Games and Coding: Exploring the Tech Behind the Fun
What students will learn:
Students will dive into the world of video game development by learning key programming concepts such as conditional statements and object-oriented programming. They'll also discover the wide range of engineers and developers involved in designing, coding, and testing today’s video games—from gameplay engineers to sound and graphics specialists.
Why it matters:
Video games are a fun and accessible way to introduce students to computer science and problem-solving. Learning the logic behind games helps demystify coding and shows students how creativity and technology work together in real-world applications.
Activity:
Students will apply coding concepts by programming Sphero Mini Robot balls using the Sphero Edu app. Through this hands-on challenge, they’ll gain experience in sequencing, loops, and logic—all while engaging in interactive play.
Note: This activity requires access to smartphones or tablets and the free Sphero Edu app.
Recommended for:
Upper Elementary to Middle School
NE Science Standards:
SC.3.7.2.E | SC.4.2.1.B | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.B |
| SC.4.4.2.E |
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| SC.8.2.2.C |
Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality: How Virtual Worlds Are Made
What students will learn:
Students will explore the foundation of virtual reality (VR)—including how the human brain processes visual information and how VR headsets use that knowledge to present immersive 3D experiences. The session also covers real-world applications of VR in industries like education, design, health, and engineering.
Why it matters:
VR is more than entertainment—it’s a tool transforming how we visualize, learn, and solve problems. Students will see how engineers combine neuroscience, optics, and programming to create immersive environments that can simulate real-life scenarios safely and effectively.
Activity:
Students will engage with the Husker STEM VR project, an app available for Oculus Quest, iOS, Android, and web platforms. They will explore virtual environments, discuss what the experience reveals about perception and design, and reflect on the engineering behind it.
Note: This activity requires access to smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
Recommended for:
Middle School or High School
NE Science Standards:
SC 8.2.3.a | SC HS.2.2.A |
Wind Turbines
Wind Turbines: Harnessing Energy from the Air
What students will learn:
This presentation introduces students to a new kind of farming—harvesting wind for energy. They’ll explore how wind turbines work, how they convert wind into usable electricity, and how different types of engineers contribute to wind energy innovation. Students will also learn about the growing importance of wind farms in today’s energy landscape.
Why it matters:
Wind energy is one of the fastest-growing sources of renewable power. Understanding the science and engineering behind wind turbines helps students connect classroom concepts to real-world sustainability efforts and future career opportunities.
Activity:
Students will use the engineering design process to build and test their own model wind turbines. They'll experiment with blade design and angle to discover what generates the most energy.
Recommended for:
Middle or High School
NE Science Standards:
SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2.(A-F) | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.A | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1 | SC.HS.1.1.A-E | SC.HSP.1.1.B | SC.HSP4.3.D |
SC.3.1.1.B |
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| SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.2.2.C | SC.HS.4.4.C | SC.HSP.1.1.B | SC.HSP.16.4.C |
SC.3.1.1.C |
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| SC.6.4.1.C | SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.4.3 | SC.HS.5.5.E | SC.HSP.1.1.C | SC.HSP16.4.D |
SC.3.7.2.E |
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| SC.6.4.1.D | SC.7.8.4.E |
| SC.HS.15.5.D | SC.HSP.1.1.D | SC.HSP.16.4.G |
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| SC.7.13.5.C |
| SC.HS.15.5.E | SC.HSP.4.3.B | |
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| SC.HSP4.3.C |
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Ziplines
Ziplines: Engineering with Gravity and Energy
What students will learn:
This presentation introduces students to the components and design of zip lines, including how gravity, tension, friction, and the conversion between potential and kinetic energy all play a role. Students will explore how engineers balance these forces to create safe and exciting zip line experiences.
Why it matters:
By applying foundational physics to something fun and familiar, students gain a deeper understanding of how energy and force are used in real-world engineering challenges.
Activity:
Students will design and test their own zip line vehicles, experimenting with how different variables affect performance and speed.
Recommended for:
Elementary or Middle School
NE Science Standards:
SC.K.1.A | SC.1.6.2.B | SC.2.3.1.A | SC.3.1.1.A | SC.4.4.2 | SC.5.13.4.E | SC.6.4.1.A | SC.7.3.1.B | SC.8.1.1.B |
SC.K.1.B |
| SC.2.3.1.B | SC.3.1.1.B |
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| SC.6.4.1.B | SC.7.7.3.C | SC.8.1.1.C |
SC.K.12.3.E |
| SC.2.3.1.C | SC.3.7.2.E |
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| SC.6.4.1.D | SC.7.7.3.D | SC.8.1.1.E |
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| SC.2.3.1.D |
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| SC.8.1.1.F |
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| SC.8.4.3.A |
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| SC.8.4.3.B |