Explore STEM majors, careers at CSU’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center on March 8

February 24, 2025

Does your child dream of exploring the stars, building robots or discovering the secrets of the Earth? If so, ignite their passion for science, technology, engineering and math at “GA STEM Day” on Saturday, March 8 at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center.

The event is free for everyone and designed especially for middle and high school students. From 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., students can dive into hands-on STEM activities while they learn from college instructors and current college students.

Activities will include:

• Blasting into space with air-powered rockets.
• Exploring computer science through computational thinking activities.
• Experimenting with LEGO robot games and 3D printing.
• Discovering ways math influences everything we do.
• Exploring the universe through telescope demonstrations, planetarium presentations and the center’s space exhibits.
• Getting up close and personal with the natural world with animals from Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center.
• Charting your career in STEM and related fields such as education, business and nursing.
• Continuing your learning with free take-home STEM activities and games.

“STEM involves creativity, problem-solving and coming up with new ideas that can change the world,” said the center’s executive director, Dr. Shawn Cruzen. “These careers let you solve real-world problems and make a real difference in your community—whether it's developing new medicines, building sustainable technologies or exploring space.”

While students explore their STEM futures, parents and families can connect with Columbus State University recruiters. They can provide specific information about applying to the university and answer general questions about preparing college applications and completing financial aid paperwork.

“STEM education is crucial for preparing students for the ever-evolving and technology-driven workforce, instilling critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and fostering future innovation,” said Melissa Niemi, current executive director of the Georgia Science Teachers Association and a Muscogee County School District science educator who earned her bachelor's from Columbus State in 2001. “As a science educator, I have witnessed how the Coca-Cola Space Science Center and Columbus State University play a vital role in this effort, offering immersive programs that inspire students to pursue STEM careers through engaging experiences in science, technology and robotics.”

WHY WORK IN STEM?

STEM encompasses various disciplines—from computer science and engineering to biology and mathematics—and offers diverse career paths to suit different interests and skills. These career fields often involve solving real-world problems and contributing to advancements in various fields, such as healthcare, technology and environmental sustainability.

Labor projections suggest that STEM occupations will grow by 10% in the next 10 years, compared to just 4% for all other occupations.

Columbus State offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, minors and certificates in more than 15 STEM fields, as well as in related areas like business, education and the health professions.

The Georgia Department of Education is sponsoring the event. It is part of a series of statewide events in March spotlighting opportunities to study and explore careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

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Media contacts:

• Columbus State University: Michael Tullier, APR, Executive Director of Strategic Communication + Marketing, 706.507.8729, mtullier@columbusstate.edu 
• Georgia Department of Education: Rontra Brown, Southwest Regional Coordinator, 678.850.1173, robrown@doe.k12.ga.us