In March, the chapter had the honor and privilege of serving as judges for the 74th Annual Tidewater Science and Engineering Fair.
The Tidewater Science Congress aims to inspire middle and high school students in the Hampton Roads, Virginia, area by engaging them in research, engineering design and technical writing-essential skills for effectively communicating their findings. Through the annual Tidewater Science and Engineering Fair, students can present their projects to judges from academia and industry. To ensure students can advance to state and national competitions, the congress aligns its protocols, application process and evaluation criteria with those of the Virginia State Science and Engineering Fair and the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.
A big 'thank you' goes out to all who volunteered to serve as judges at the 2025 Tidewater Science and Engineering Fair. The chapter had the largest contingent of judges in the Specialty category of an organization and provided two teammates to help in other areas where it was needed. The chapter awarded $1,800 to the top three students in both the Senior and Junior categories. The chapter will make a $1,000 donation to the Tidewater Science Congress at the April luncheon to help support efforts in furthering STEM education in the Hampton Roads area.
The chapter is recognized as a major supporter and promoter of STEM in the community, as well as supporting activities like the science fair. Chapter Vice President of Education Dennis Garcia and co-chair, Matthew Umphlet, led the charge to coordinate judging with the Tidewater Science Congress and spoke with seniors pursuing STEM-related degrees who have been accepted to universities. They informed the students of the scholarship program and encouraged them to apply.
These activities are the foundation of AFCEA's commitment to shaping future leaders, strongly emphasizing STEM education. The chapter actively supports and promotes STEM initiatives in the community, providing resources, mentorship and opportunities that inspire the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers and technology leaders.
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