For the 26th year, The University of Akron’s College of Engineering and Polymer Science welcomed children and families from across the region for Kids Career Day, continuing a long-standing tradition of introducing young learners to the exciting possibilities within science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The annual event brought together children, families, UA student volunteers, faculty, staff and industry partners for a day filled with interactive STEM experiences designed to spark curiosity and inspire future career exploration. Through hands-on activities and engaging demonstrations, participants had the opportunity to explore engineering concepts, problem-solving and creativity in action.

“Another incredible year of learning, exploration and growth for our participants,” said Dr. Neete Saha, director of student experience and engagement for the college and leader of the event. “This success would not have been possible without the support of our many contributors.”

This year’s Kids Career Day featured a wide range of interactive sessions led by University of Akron faculty, student organizations and industry professionals, including:

• A keynote presentation by Dr. Dane Quinn
• A parent session led by Dr. Julie Zhao
• The Bouncy Ball Project with Dr. Chunming Liu
• Engineering the Lighting System with Dr. Farhina Haque
• Marshmallow Catapult Challenge with BWXT, led by Mandy Pavlicko, Deb Erzen, Therese Hurtuk and Joanna Radov
• Building a Prosthetic Hand with Alyssa Mobley
• Static Electricity “Can Races” with Nestlé, led by Alina Kahn, Erica Clerc, Lillian Gosser and Rachel Zimmerman
• Rocket Engineering Experiment with Dr. Manigandan Kannan and the Akronauts Rocket Design Team
• Safety in Action with The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, led by Jeremy Rowerstein and Aidan Cazares
• Robotic Arm demonstrations with the NASA Robotics Team, led by Nathaniel O’Brien, Jon Roth, Brandon McCune and Nick Seiler
• Windy City Tower Activity with OHM Advisors, led by Kayla Hillegass, Abby Englehart, Liam Kiley and Nick Pokhrel

The impact of the event was reflected in enthusiastic feedback from parents, volunteers and presenters alike.

Parents praised the event’s ability to introduce children to STEM concepts in meaningful and memorable ways.

“I thought the event was so great and I think it had a big impact on my son and niece,” one parent shared. “My son walked out talking about all the things he was interested in doing when he grows up, which is exactly what I wanted to hear.”

Another parent described the experience as “very well run and organized,” adding that their child is already excited to return next year.

UA student volunteers also highlighted the event’s engaging atmosphere and thoughtful organization.

“I absolutely loved the detailed schedule,” one volunteer said. “Each group was small enough to get to know all the kids, and the activities seemed age-appropriate and very engaging.”

Another volunteer noted the excitement of working with younger students eager to participate and learn throughout the day.

Industry presenters emphasized the importance of introducing STEM opportunities at an early age.

“Kids Career Day has been an incredibly rewarding opportunity for us,” said Jeremy Rowerstein, superintendent at The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company. “It’s inspiring to see students’ curiosity and enthusiasm as they learn about different career paths, and it’s clear how impactful these early exposures can be.”

Kayla Hillegass, project engineer at OHM Advisors, echoed that sentiment. “Kids Career Day was a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about STEM in an engaging and interactive environment. Allowing kids to explore, create and connect with new friends outside the classroom helps grow their confidence and enthusiasm for future careers as engineers, scientists and creative problem-solvers.”

Kids Career Day remains a trusted and valued community tradition, continuing to inspire the next generation of innovators through hands-on discovery and meaningful mentorship.

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