Become a Catalyst for Innovation: Volunteer as a Judge at the 2025 Iowa State Science and Technology Fair!

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach needs judges for the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa. This exciting event for students in grades 6-12 will take place on March 27-28 at the Hilton Coliseum in Ames.

The fair is a yearly celebration of student achievements in science and engineering. Participants showcase their original research and compete for awards and scholarships. It’s a fantastic way to inspire students to explore careers in STEM fields.

Alexa Groff, the Iowa 4-H STEM education specialist and director of SSTFI, emphasizes the importance of judges from the community. Their expertise helps evaluate and celebrate students’ innovative work.

This year’s fair will host over 650 participants presenting a record-breaking 500 projects. Groff invites professionals in science, technology, engineering, and math to join as judges. Their input is essential for motivating the next generation of innovators.

For many students, interacting with judges is the highlight of the event. It provides them a chance to discuss their ideas with experts, whether it’s their first time presenting or they’ve had previous research experience.

People can register to judge either junior or senior high divisions. Judging will be held from 7-8 a.m. each day, with an orientation starting at 8 a.m. at the ISU Alumni Center. While having an advanced degree or industry experience is preferred for senior projects, no special training is needed. Lunch and snacks will be provided.

Judges will assess projects and offer constructive feedback. They’ll be assigned based on their preferences, education, and professional background.

Categories for projects include:

• Biochemistry
• Biomedical and Health
• Cellular and Molecular Biology
• Microbiology
• Chemistry
• Engineering
• Mathematics
• Energy and Transportation
• Physics and Astronomy
• Computer Science
• Robotics and Intelligent Machines
• Technology Integrated in the Arts
• Animal, Plant, Food, Earth and Environmental Sciences
• Behavioral and Social Sciences

With 17 categories, judges can easily find something that interests them. Research scientists like José González and Toby Adjuik have praised the event, noting how inspiring it is to see students so engaged with science.

Groff sums it up well: “SSTFI is a competition that celebrates curiosity and ingenuity. The excitement is contagious.” She encourages anyone interested in volunteering to sign up online.

For more details, visit the SSTFI website or reach out to Alexa Groff at 515-294-8848 or [email protected].

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