Students across Northern Nevada have a new opportunity to showcase their science and engineering projects. Registration is now open for the inaugural Northern Nevada STEM Fair, which will be held on March 6 at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Who can participate
The fair welcomes eligible students in grades first through twelfth from twelve Nevada counties. Participants may enter individually or form teams of up to three students. Prizes will be awarded in three divisions:
- SciVenture – grades 1‑5
- Junior High – grades 6‑8
- High School – grades 9‑12
Path to national competition
High‑school winners will earn the chance to compete at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. This year marks the first time the Northern Nevada STEM Fair is affiliated with the international competition, a relationship that typically requires a two‑year development period.
Local roots and leadership
Mark Ochs, a science teacher at Sky Ranch Middle School, highlighted the fair’s impact: “A STEM fair gives students the opportunity to turn their curiosity into real‑world investigation and innovation. The launch of the Northern Nevada STEM Fair ensures that students across our region gain recognition for their innovative work.” Ochs, whose uncle George Ochs organized the former Western Regional Science and Engineering Fair until 2017, sees the new event as a revival of a cherished local tradition.
The fair originated in 2025 when two high‑school students created the SciVenture Science Fair to fill the void left by the discontinued regional fair. Their student‑led committee later partnered with UNR and other colleges to secure judges and resources, culminating in the current collaboration with the university.
University support
University Executive Vice President and Provost Jeff Thompson emphasized the institution’s commitment: “As Nevada’s flagship land‑grant university, we are committed to creating opportunities for young people across our state. The Northern Nevada STEM Fair gives students a chance to explore their curiosity, showcase their creativity, and take the first steps toward becoming the innovators and problem‑solvers who will shape Nevada’s future.”
How to register
Students, parents, and potential sponsors can find registration details and information about supporting the fair on the event’s website. The fair promises to inspire the next generation of innovators and provide a platform for young scientists to demonstrate their talents.
Looking ahead
Organizers hope the fair will become an annual fixture, strengthening Nevada’s reputation for scientific excellence and encouraging more students to pursue STEM careers. With community backing and university resources, the Northern Nevada STEM Fair aims to nurture curiosity, creativity, and problem‑solving skills that will benefit the state for years to come.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.
