The 41st annual Central Coast STEM Expo returns 5-8 p.m. Friday, May 1, and 8 a.m.-noon Saturday, May 2, to the Lompoc High School Gymnasium, 515 W. College, Lompoc.
The free, community-wide event offers an opportunity for students, families and educators to explore, discover and celebrate innovation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Students in grades 3-12 on the Central Coast will exhibit their creative and ingenious projects. The community is invited to view the projects and share in the work accomplished by local students.
Judging of the projects will be conducted in part by Vandenberg Space Force Base airmen, guardians, and contractor workforce during the event hours.
An awards reception will be at 7 p.m. May 2 in the gym, with doors opening for public viewing of all projects at 6:30 p.m.
The keynote speaker for the awards reception will be Col. James Horne, commander, Space Launch Delta 30 at Vandenberg SFB.
The event will culminate with the Awards Reception, where over $700 in plaques and cash awards will be given to top performers, in addition to a $500 scholarship for the overall top project.
This year’s STEM Expo will feature demonstrations by local Lego FIRST Robotics Competition High School Teams and an in-costume appearance by the 501st Legion (Star Wars) on Saturday.
The STEM Expo is powered by community support, and volunteers are essential to its success. Community members can assist with setup, judging, and general event operations, with food provided for volunteers on both days.
To sign up as a participant, access project guidelines, or learn more about volunteering, visit https://ccstemexpo.org.
The 2026 STEM Expo is organized in coordination with the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Central Coast of California Section, ManTech, SAIC, General Dynamics Mission Systems, and the Air and Space Force Association Goddard Chapter.