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

If you’re interested in volunteering at a Chicago Public School (CPS), get a head start and complete their additional registration and online training process. Instruction can be found here.

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.