Each Fall and Spring term, the e-squared program connects volunteer engineers with grade, middle, and high school classrooms across Illinois.

Through a short presentation and a hands-on engineering activity, students learn what engineers do, how engineering impacts everyday life, and the many pathways available within the profession. Whether you’re a school looking to host a visit or an engineer interested in inspiring future problem-solvers, participation is simple.

Apply below to get started.

Inspire the next generation through hands-on engineering. 
e-squared volunteers don’t just talk about engineering, they lead students through an age-appropriate engineering activity that demonstrates how engineers think, problem-solve, and design solutions. You’ll share your career story, but your primary role is to facilitate an interactive lesson tailored to the grade level you’re visiting.

What to Expect:

• Visits last approximately one hour and begin with a short introduction from the volunteer
• An introduction slide deck and activity options with step-by-step instructions are provided
• All materials are paid for and shipped directly to the volunteer

How it Works:

• Each fall and spring term, the e-squared team releases a set of dates for volunteer visits; volunteers fill out the application and select their available dates each term they wish to volunteer
• The e-squared team will contact volunteers to confirm logistics and school pairings
• After choosing a classroom activity, volunteers place supply orders through our Amazon Business account
• Volunteers complete a brief exit survey following their visit

Bring engineering to life in your classroom.
Our volunteer engineers are excited to visit classrooms and show students the opportunities that come with a career in engineering.  

Program Details:

• Programs are tailored for grade school, middle school, and high school classrooms
• Visits are approximately one hour and held in-person at your school 
• Activities are designed to be engaging, educational, and inspiring

How it Works:

• Schools may be limited to one e-squared visit per year (choose either the fall or spring term)
• The e-squared team coordinates volunteer matching and logistics
• Schools communicate with their assigned volunteer to finalize visit details
• Schools complete a brief exit survey following the visit

If your school is not paired during the term they applied, they are encouraged to reapply the following term.