The UMSL School of Engineering is committed to sparking curiosity and building foundational skills in STEM through engaging, hands-on experiences for K–12 students. Our camps and educational programs introduce young learners to the exciting world of engineering, encouraging creativity, problem-solving and teamwork while exploring real-world applications.
Information sessions for prospective engineering studentes are held twice a month starting in January 2026. Learn more and register for a session.
January – May, 2026
High School Internship Program
This program introduces High School students to research in the areas of civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. This includes advanced manufacturing, robotics, power engineering, water technology, smart structure, energy harvesting, etc. We work with the High Schools to identify and select eligible students. The students conduct research under the supervision of a professor.
Contact: Dr. Hamid Sanei
January 15, 2026, 3:00 p.m.
Team Up Thursday
Guest Speaker - Dana Trokey, Instructional Coach
Highcroft Ridge Elementary, Parkway School District
Topics: experience as an engineer; what engineers do; what inspired you to pursue this field; and what they can start doing now in school to be successful if they choose a similar path? Having the chance to learn from a real professional would make a meaningful impact and help them see what is possible for their futures.
Contact: Dr. George Nnanna
March 13, 2026
Explore Engineering Day
Explore Engineering Day at UMSL offers K–12 students a hands-on look into the world of engineering through fun activities, lab tours and interactive demos. It’s a great opportunity to discover STEM in action and meet faculty and students.
Contact: Ms. Iriah Wilkerson, Dr. Xin Wang, Dr. Hamid Sanei, Dr. George Nnanna
April 21-30, 2026
VEX World Championships in St. Louis
Location: America's Center Convention Complex
High School (April 21-24),
Middle School/VEX U (April 25-27)
VEX IQ Elementary/Middle School (April 28-30)
The Robotics Education & Competition Foundation sparks interest in STEM by engaging students in hands-on, sustainable, and affordable curriculum-based robotics programs.
Contact: Dr. Xin Wang or Dr. George Nnanna
Engineering Summer Camp
June 2026 | High School: Rising 9-12th grade and Middle School: Rising 6-8th grade
The UMSL Engineering Summer Camp provides personal, hands-on experience for high school and middle school students.
The Engineering Camp is an interactive learning curriculum for students interested in the field of engineering. It is focused on connecting these students to some of the engineering areas. It is structured to connect science, math, and their engineering-related applications together. The engineering camp is an enrichment program, not a remedial program.
The overall objective of the UMSL Engineering Summer Camp is to expose participants to various fundamental concepts of engineering, and to demonstrate to students that there are excellent job opportunities in engineering where graduates can earn a good living doing work they enjoy with interesting people!
