Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's (LLNL) STEM Day ignites curiosity and shapes futures, delivering high-quality science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education to more than 1,935 students - and the impact keeps growing.
The Department of Energy (DOE) selected LLNL as the first government entity to pilot the program in 2015, recognizing the Laboratory's commitment to raising awareness about the importance of science and technology. Over the past decade, STEM Day has provided hands-on learning opportunities for students and communities, helping to foster interest in STEM-related careers.
The event targets students in grades five to eight, aiming to instill a passion for STEM by exposing them to science and technology in a professional setting. Through interactive demonstrations, experiments and activities led by LLNL scientists and engineers, students gain firsthand experience with STEM concepts and learn about the diverse career paths available in these fields.
"STEM Day is about inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers," said Tony Baylis, Human Resources Laboratory Culture Strategic Programs manager. "By engaging students early, we hope to foster a lifelong interest in STEM and help build the workforce of the future."
The program is part of LLNL's broader approach to STEM education, which spans from elementary school to early career development. Sponsored by the Laboratory's Human Resources department and supported by the Academic Engagement Office (AEO), STEM Day reflects LLNL's commitment to community outreach and workforce development.
Since its launch, the event has grown in popularity, drawing participation from schools across the region. Students leave the event with a deeper understanding of STEM and a newfound excitement for the possibilities it offers.
Impact throughout the decade
LLNL's STEM Day at the Lab has left a lasting impression on students, engaging more than 1,935 participants since its inception. This impactful initiative continues to inspire young minds through interactive workshops such as edible aquifers and bristlebots, as well as tours of the National Ignition Facility (NIF). By fostering connections with schools and organizations across Northern California, STEM Day serves as a strategic investment in cultivating the nation's future STEM workforce.
"The growth of STEM Day at the Lab - from just 60 students in 2015 to more than 1,935 participants by 2025 - reflects our unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation of innovators," said Baylis. "Each event is a spark, igniting curiosity and passion for science and technology in young minds. Together, we are building a brighter future, one student at a time, and investing in the workforce that will drive innovation for decades to come."
2025 continues to ignite minds into STEM fields
Held April 18, the first STEM Day in 2025 included Tracy and Stockton Unified School Districts and brought more than 195 students and chaperones to visit LLNL. More than 85 LLNL volunteers with an additional 40 volunteers from NIF supported the annual tradition.
The program kicked off with a welcome address from Baylis. Attendees heard from guest speakers, including Jeff Wisoff, former principal associate director of the National Ignition Facility and Photon Science; Lauren Abrahams, a design physicist specializing in strategic deterrence; and John Jett, graphic designer and artist at LLNL.
"The 2025 STEM Day at the Lab was a great opportunity to interact with the next generation of scientists as they explored physics, light, lasers and cutting-edge technology alongside LLNL scientists and engineers. I love that LLNL is committed to inspiring curiosity and guiding the next generation toward STEM careers that will shape the future," said Rob Neely, associate director for Weapon Simulation and Computing, Strategic Deterrence.
Trenton Brendel, Patrick Poole and Harold Rogers led a "Fun with Science" presentation to engage students with the concepts of light, lasers, optics and physics through demos, hands-on activities and science displays.
Midday activities included workshops and tours of LLNL including Physics with Phones, another AEO science education activity that allows students to learn physics concepts using smartphones. By leveraging the sensors and capabilities built into modern phones, attendees learned about accelerometers, gyroscopes and magnetometers.
As STEM Day continues to expand, LLNL remains dedicated to providing high-quality educational experiences that inspire curiosity and innovation. By connecting students with real-world applications of science and technology, the Laboratory is helping shape the future of STEM.
Curious to learn more about the Lab's community and education efforts? Read how LLNL engages with neighboring communities and how LLNL is building bridges from the Laboratory to the classroom.
