STEM Sparks | Igniting Girls’ Futures in the Built Environment
Decorative only. Copy: STEM Sparks, igniting girls' futures in the Built Environment
Ever wondered who decides what gets built where? Or how someone knows exactly how much concrete to order for a new footpath?
Welcome to STEM Sparks – a hands-on, curiosity-fuelled National Science Week event where girls and their families can discover real jobs in construction and the built environment.
What’s On:
- STEM Story Circles (11:00am) – Chat with women working as design managers, project managers, quantity surveyors, engineers and more
- Drop-in Activity Stations – Try out real-life tasks: sequence a project, estimate materials, spot building fails and crack cost mysteries
- STEM Mythbusters Challenge – Bust common myths about girls in STEM
- Sparks Scavenger Hunt – Connect with other Open Day activities across campus to win a reward pack (including a free book!)
- “Day in the Life” Video Series – Peek into real careers across the built environment
This free, family-friendly event is part of National Science Week celebrations. Whether you like building things, solving puzzles, organising chaos or dreaming big — there’s a future for you in STEM!
This event is aimed at primary and high school students.
To view the University’s full National Science Week event schedule, visit www.newcastle.edu.au/national-science-week.
Event Information
- Date: This in person event will be held on Saturday 15 August 2026 from 10:00am - 12:00pm
- Duration: 2 hours
- Location: SABE Precinct
- Room: BSC126
- Campus: Newcastle (Callaghan)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.