National Engineering Week takes place February 22–28, 2026, and we’re celebrating with one of the region’s longest-running STEM traditions: Discover Engineering.
Hosted in collaboration with North Dakota’s Gateway to Science, Chapter 3 of the North Dakota Society of Professional Engineers, and local engineering firms, Discover Engineering brings families and industry professionals together for a free day of hands-on learning designed to inspire future careers in engineering.
This year’s theme, “Transform Your Future,” highlights the powerful role engineering plays in shaping communities, solving real-world problems, and creating opportunities for the next generation.
Hands-On Engineering Activities
Discover Engineering gives families the chance to explore engineering concepts through interactive activities led by professionals working in the field. By connecting students directly with engineers from their own community, the event helps young learners see how curiosity can grow into real careers.
Participants can explore a wide variety of engaging experiences, such as:
- Parachute design challenges
- Ozobot coding activities
- Pipe and structure creations
- Lasers and gears demonstrations
- Catapults and racecars
- Stomp rockets
- Bridge-building challenges
- And many more hands-on activities
These experiences encourage problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration while showing how engineering impacts everyday life.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Engineering careers are essential to North Dakota’s future workforce and innovation economy. Events like Discover Engineering introduce students to STEM pathways early, helping them imagine themselves as future engineers, designers, and innovators.
Through partnerships with local industry leaders and educators, North Dakota’s Gateway to Science continues its mission of inspiring discovery through accessible, hands-on STEM experiences for learners of all ages. The event reflects a shared community commitment to making STEM learning visible, approachable, and exciting.
Event Details
Discover Engineering 2026
📍 Kirkwood Mall — North Court (near the Sanford Play Area)
📅 Saturday, February 28, 2026
🕚 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
💲 Free and open to the public
Discover Engineering is a free family event featuring hands-on engineering activities led by professionals from organizations across the region.
Stop by, explore, and discover how engineering can help transform the future!