The 9th annual STEAM Youth and Community Conference held at the University of San Diego drew over 700 attendees last month, marking the largest turnout in the event’s history. Hosted by the university’s Jacobs Institute for Innovation in Education, the conference showcased more than 40 student presentations, hands-on workshops, and numerous prize giveaways, creating a vibrant atmosphere of learning and collaboration.
According to Rebecca Ottinger, Project Manager at USD, the energy during the conference was palpable. “It was the largest turnout we’ve ever had. 700 people were coming together as a community for the day, and the energy was really electric,” she stated. The event originated from a vision by three USD faculty members who recognized the need for a supportive space for young people to thrive in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).
Over the years, the conference has expanded significantly, incorporating more workshops and participation from various local organizations, including the San Diego Unified School District, the San Diego Foundation, and Young Echelon. In previous years, the conference began with a summer camp known as STEAM Academy, which provided immersive experiences in subjects like robotics and dance. Although the academy did not take place this year, alternative camps were offered, such as VisMO Summer Adventure and the ImPactful Teen Innovation Sandbox.
VisMO cleverly combined origami with the popular game Minecraft, enhancing students’ spatial awareness while deepening their understanding of mathematics. The Innovation Sandbox guided students in creating and broadcasting their podcasts, fostering communication skills and creativity.
Participants showcased their projects during the conference’s opening, highlighting the diverse talents of students from across San Diego. In total, the event featured 30 interactive STEAM workshops led by professors, university students, and local experts. These workshops covered an array of topics, teaching attendees skills such as building underwater robots, mastering weaving techniques, exploring neuroscience, and constructing musical organs. Many sessions were offered in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a wider audience.
Ottinger emphasized the mission of the Jacobs Institute, stating, “Everything that we do is really about reimagining teaching and learning, allowing students to embrace their unique selves.” This philosophy was evident throughout the conference as students engaged in hands-on learning experiences.
The day concluded with the STEAMx segment, inspired by TEDx talks, where three speakers shared their experiences regarding “productive struggle” in life. Among them was an eighth grader who delivered a powerful speech about overcoming adversity. “There were over 200 people in that room listening to them,” Ottinger noted. “It was really powerful to have the community be there together.”
The success of this year’s STEAM Youth and Community Conference reflects a growing commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration among young people in the region. As the event continues to expand, its impact on the community and the educational landscape is expected to be profound, equipping future generations with essential skills and confidence.