Empowering Future Innovators: UPREP STEM Exploration Day at LTU

Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators: UPREP High School STEM Exploration Day at LTU served as a vibrant extension of the Hidden Figure Scholars program—an initiative launched by Lawrence Technological University to promote equity and excellence in STEM education. Building on the program’s mission to uplift and empower students in science and technology fields, this event provided a hands-on, immersive experience designed to ignite curiosity and inspire future innovators through dynamic learning opportunities.

Lawrence Technological University proudly welcomed 120 11th grader students and 10 teachers from UPREP Academy for an engaging, hands-on STEM exploration event focused on the Science and Arts of 3D modeling and printing. This inspiring day is championed by Dean Nelson of the College of Arts and Sciences and expertly supported by Vice President for Enrollment Management, Lisa Kujawa. The event’s success is further driven by the outstanding leadership of Dr. Lindsey, Jay, and Carl from the STEM Center, highlighting LTU’s dedication to empowering the next generation of innovators through immersive and impactful educational experiences.

This special event, part of LTU’s ongoing dedication to STEM education and outreach, began with a warm welcome from Dr. Bukaita, STEM Education Coordinator. He introduced the students to the College of Arts and Sciences with an inspiring presentation that showcased the college’s academic programs, student success stories, and research accomplishments within the Math and Computer Science Department. Following this, Dr. Matthew Johnston greeted the students, offering valuable insights into the innovative work underway in LTU’s Mathematics and Computer Science departments.

Steven Kish, LTU librarian, provided an overview of the academic support services and digital resources available to students, helping familiarize the visitors with the broader campus experience. He also gave the students a tour of LTU’s historic library collection housed within the campus library.

One of the most engaging and interactive highlights of the event is the 3D printing workshop, expertly co-led by Professor Yelena Vaynberg and a guest speaker from Polar Filament Company, a recognized leader in the development of advanced 3D printing materials. This workshop offered students an invaluable opportunity to explore the transformative world of additive manufacturing—a technology that is revolutionizing industries across the globe. Students learned about the different types of 3D printers, the wide variety of filament materials available, and the diverse design applications that make 3D printing a versatile and powerful tool.

To celebrate the students’ enthusiasm and active participation, Professor Vaynberg had prepared a special collection of custom 3D-printed prizes, awarded to those who demonstrated exceptional engagement during the workshop. This gesture not only recognized their efforts but also inspired them to continue exploring the vast possibilities that 3D printing offers.

Following the introductory sessions, students dove into a real-world design challenge that brought their creativity and technical skills together. They transformed their original 2D artwork into fully functional 3D STL files using Desmos software, a powerful tool that bridges mathematics and design. Students then learned how to slice these models—a critical step in preparing files for 3D printing—gaining hands-on experience with the entire digital fabrication process. This immersive activity not only reinforced STEM principles such as geometry, computer science, and engineering design but also encouraged creative problem-solving and innovation, allowing students to see firsthand how abstract concepts come to life through technology.

After the workshop, the LTU Admissions team led students on a comprehensive campus tour, showcasing the exciting learning environment that awaits them. Scholars explored state-of-the-art laboratories, modern classrooms, and dynamic student activity spaces, gaining a deeper understanding of the resources and opportunities available at LTU. This tour provided valuable insight into campus life and academic programs, helping students envision their future educational journey.

The day concluded with a communal lunch in the University Atrium, where students had the chance to connect with peers, faculty, and staff in a relaxed setting. During this time, students received informational packets filled with details about LTU’s programs, scholarships, and student services. The event wrapped up with inspiring closing remarks from Lisa Kujawa, Vice President for Enrollment Management, who encouraged the students to pursue their passions and consider LTU as the next step in their academic and professional careers. This meaningful conclusion left the students energized, informed, and motivated to continue exploring the exciting world of STEM.

The event concluded around 12:15 p.m., with students departing inspired and excited about the possibility of a future at LTU.

This impactful and inspiring day was made possible through the visionary leadership of Dean Nelson, whose unwavering commitment to inclusive and innovative STEM Education continues to shape meaningful learning experiences at Lawrence Technological University. The event was masterfully coordinated by LTU’s STEM Center.

This event served as an exciting expression of LTU’s broader mission to empower the next generation of STEM leaders—particularly through initiatives like the Hidden Figures Scholars program. As part of LTU’s STEM Education outreach, this program is actively exploring new opportunities to build lasting connections between the university and local high schools. These initiatives aim not only to introduce high school students and teachers to the academic programs, research, and resources available at LTU, but also to foster a deeper, long-term engagement with the university community.

Looking ahead, the Hidden Figures Scholars program plans to expand its outreach by creating a network of student and teacher ambassadors from partner schools. These ambassadors will help amplify LTU’s presence in the community, share their experiences, and serve as bridges between their schools and the university. Through mentorship, collaborative projects, and access to LTU’s faculty and research facilities, high school students will gain valuable exposure to higher education and real-world STEM pathways.

This event is more than a one-day experience—it was a catalyst for building strong, lasting relationships that showcase LTU’s strengths, foster mutual growth, and inspire future generations to see themselves as scientists, engineers, creators, and leaders.