The College of Engineering provides engaging programs and resources for introducing youth to the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Through our investments in K-12 outreach efforts, we pave the way for a new generation of engineering professionals and future leaders. Below are projects throughout the college centered around youth engagement.
C-STEM Center
The UC Davis C-STEM (Computing, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Center develops educational computing and robotics technology, curriculum and pedagogical strategies, and provides professional development and support for STEM teachers to integrate hands-on computing and robotics in the classroom.
The center also hosts extracurricular activities such as camps and competitions for K-12 students. These activities provide exposure and hands-on learning in computing, robotics, technology and more.
Tahoe Environmental Research Center
The Tahoe Environmental Research Center (TERC) hosts education and outreach programs, providing science-based information about the Lake Tahoe region. Through exhibits, interactive hands-on educational activities and outreach, TERC inspires students towards environmental science, responsible action and active conservation and preservation of freshwater resources. Students can also tour the Tahoe Science Center and Eriksson Education Center, or attend educational field trips.
STEM and Drone Academy
The UC Davis Center for Information Technology Research in the Interest of Society (CITRIS) program hosts an annual STEM and drone academy for local students in grades 10-12. High school students from the Davis, Woodland and Sacramento area are introduced to aerodynamics, physics and drone technology and design through hands-on learning. Student teams then have the opportunity to assemble a drone kit and fly the drone using cameras and thermal sensors.
Youth Outreach News
UC Davis Mind and Machine Summer Camp Inspires New Generation with Connection Between Engineering, Neuroscience
For the second straight year, the Center for Neuroengineering and Medicine hosted the UC Davis Mind and Machine summer camp for area middle school students.
The three-day camp is designed to introduce students to the concepts of engineering and neuroscience.
Student-Created Nonprofit Fosters Early Interest in STEM
When Sayan Bhatia was 15, he co-founded the nonprofit program Start STEM Early to make learning science and math accessible and enjoyable for kids. Now a computer engineering major at UC Davis, Bhatia takes what he is learning to expand the reach of his outreach.
UC Davis C-STEM Brings Computer Science into Redlands Classrooms
Since 2010, the University of California, Davis, Center for Integrated Computing and STEM Education, or C-STEM, has aimed to transform K-12 math, computer science and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) education through integrated learning.
Engineering Ambassadors inspire fifth-grade students to explore engineering at UC Davis
In October 2023, Engineering Ambassadors gave a tour of campus to 28 students and teachers during the C-STEM Conference. Are you interested in an in-person tour?
Hear from our students
Our Engineering Ambassadors share their perspective on engineering, what it is and what engineers do.
Advice for Aspiring Engineers
How to Become an Engineer
How Engineers Solve Problems
Want to hear directly from an Engineering Ambassador about their experiences with classes, research, clubs/teams and more?
Other UC Davis STEM Programs
MESA Schools Program
The Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement (MESA) Schools Program prepares K-12 students in Sacramento and Yolo counties in STEM subjects. The college prep program sparks early interest in STEM by bridging classroom concepts to real-world practice, and inspires youth on their academic journey to higher education and their future success.
COSMOS
The California State Summer School for Mathematics & Science (COSMOS) is an intensive four-week summer residential program. Students completing grades 8-12 have the opportunity to be mentored by renowned faculty, researchers and scientists while exploring advanced STEM topics beyond the courses typically offered in California high schools. Through challenging curricula that are both hands-on and lab intensive, COSMOS fosters its students’ interests, skills and awareness of educational and career options in STEM fields.
The Internet of Things
The Internet-of-Things (IoT), a cluster in COSMOS led by electrical and computer engineering professors Hooman Rashtian and Rajeevan Amirtharajah, provides hands-on experience in working with IoT systems. The cluster is designed to help students develop skills in building "smart" technology, such as wearable consumer devices and wearable healthcare devices.
STEM for Girls
STEM for Girls invites 10-12 year old students from the Woodland and Sacramento areas for a full day immersion into science, technology, engineering and math. The program exposes students to STEM fields, builds confidence in their abilities to participate in STEM, and introduces them to relatable and accessible STEM role models.
Quantum Information Science and Technology
The R-Lab, led by electrical and computer engineering professor Marina Radulaski, introduces students to quantum information science and technology (QIST). The lab partners with local high schools and clubs to discuss QIST concepts and research careers, while familiarizing students with a lab environment.
UC Davis STEM Portal
The UC Davis STEM Portal is the go-to resource for all things science, technology, engineering and mathematics related at UC Davis. Students, parents and teachers can search for opportunities such as summer camps, tours, programs and internships. The easy-to-use search feature allows you to filter by audience, resource, discipline and areas of study.
Aware of a STEM outreach effort or resource missing from this page?
Let us know! Contact us at coe-comms@ucdavis.edu to be featured.