Are you an innovator? Do you like using science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to invent solutions to messy problems? If so, the EMC^2 team at North Carolina State University needs your help!

Who: We’re looking for high schoolers to help us test a new type of activity that we’re calling Design & Pitch challenges. Students will use math in solving these challenges but there is no prerequisite knowledge required to participate in the challenge. All who are excited about using STEM to solve real and messy problems are welcome!

What: Design & Pitch challenges encourage students to use their knowledge of STEM to invent solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues. What makes these challenges different from other STEM challenges is that we want students to think like entrepreneurs, including developing business plans, because without money, even the best solution is unlikely to succeed!

Why: By participating in the Design & Pitch challenges, students will apply and strengthen STEM skills as they work with a team to apply design thinking principles. They will hone their presentation skills and learn to be succinct as they participate in a 5-minute pitch competition. To win, they will need to convince investors (panel of judges) that their solution solves an important problem and is applicable in a range of situations and for a variety of users. Plus, students will receive a $50 gift card upon completion of the challenge!

Additionally, by participating in the challenges, students will be partners in the design process. The solutions they develop and the feedback they provide will help us revise our current challenges, design future challenges, and identify ways to support students and teachers in real high school classrooms.

Where: The camp will take place at the Friday Institute for Educational Innovation, located at 1890 Main Campus Drive in Raleigh. Free parking is available on site.

When: The three-day summer camp will take place July 11-13, from 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM.