The Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle once again buzzed with energy, creativity and curiosity last week as STEMFest brought together thousands of students, educators, and industry professionals for three exciting days of hands-on STEM exploration.
STEMFest, organised by the STEM Hub, delivered by RTC North, aims to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators by giving young people the chance to experience real-world STEM in action – working alongside professionals shaping the future of technology and innovation.
The event was proudly supported by organisations including headline supporter Cummins, alongside the Reece Foundation, Siemens Energy, Sage, the Community Foundation, Simpson Print, Nissan and Ford Aerospace whose commitment to inspiring future talent made STEMFest North East possible.
Throughout the event, 3,000 students from 82 schools across the North East, took part in interactive workshops, live experiments and immersive exhibits. Leading organisation’s such as Galliford Try, Venterra and Unipres showcased cutting-edge technologies, giving students a glimpse into future career paths and industries driving innovation from renewable energy to robotics.
The exhibition space featured 60 local businesses, representing a wide range of STEM sectors. Students were able to dive into themed zones designed to spark curiosity and showcase career opportunities in areas such as space, technology, cybersecurity, environmental, energy and manufacturing.
Highlights of this event include sessions delivered by CyberFirst, where students explored the digital world through Enigma, Cyber Heist and Cypher Chase activities, learning what it takes to think like a cybersecurity professional. Students also experienced an unforgettable journey through space inside Immersive Experience’s inflatable dome. Flying in all the way from the United States, Jim Christensen, the Chief Innovation Officer for the Aldrin Family Foundation and former Director of Education at the Kennedy Space Centre, captivated audiences with his Moon and Mars mapping activity.
In addition to student experiences, STEMFest also hosted a Women in STEM networking session, designed to connect and empower women working in STEM across the North East – fostering collaboration and sharing insights.
Dawn Ross, Liaison Coordinator at the STEM Hub comments:
"A huge thank you to everyone who made STEMFest such a fantastic success. From our headline supporter Cummins to all our partners, exhibitors, educators and volunteers. Together, we created an unforgettable celebration of STEM that sparked curiosity, showcased innovation and opened doors to exciting future careers. We are now looking forward to seeing what 2026 brings."
