Volunteer at the MWV Youth STEM Expo
It takes a community to make the MWV Youth STEM Expo happen! Whether you’re a scientist, engineer, educator, or simply someone who enjoys supporting kids, there’s a volunteer role for you.
You can mentor students, judge projects, or help on Expo day—each role makes a real difference in inspiring our next generation of problem-solvers and innovators.
Become a STEM Expo Mentor
Do you enjoy inspiring young minds? The MWV Youth STEM Expo needs mentors to help students bring their ideas to life!
What mentors do:
STEM Expo mentors work with students during classroom time or after school—typically about once a week starting in January. You’ll be paired with a school and age group that fits your interests. Most opportunities are with 5th–8th graders in Bartlett, Jackson, and Conway.
Your role:
As a mentor, you’ll partner with teachers or after-school providers to guide students as they create their STEM Expo projects. Depending on their age and experience, your role might include:
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Introducing the scientific method and helping students plan their projects.
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Helping younger students take a big, exciting idea and make it achievable within their time and resources.
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Asking guiding questions that help older students deepen their understanding and problem-solve independently.
What makes a great mentor:
Mentors are coaches, advisors, and listeners. You don’t need to have all the answers—you just need curiosity, patience, and a willingness to help students explore.
You’ll:
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Listen to students’ ideas and ask clarifying questions.
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Offer encouragement and support.
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Share resources—videos, articles, background info—that help students learn.
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Guide, don’t instruct, so students can discover their own solutions.
Get started:
Visit our Resources Page for project guides, Expo rules, and judging rubrics.
Be a STEM Expo Judge
If you enjoy talking with students about science, technology, engineering, and math—this is the role for you!
What judges do:
Judges volunteer on Expo Day, spending the morning speaking with students about their projects. Each project is reviewed by a small team of judges who evaluate presentations using a clear rubric and provide constructive feedback.
Who we’re looking for:
Judges come from all backgrounds—scientists, engineers, educators, professionals, and community members with an interest in STEM or in helping kids succeed. You don’t need prior judging experience—just curiosity, kindness, and good listening skills.
Time commitment:
Most judges volunteer for one half-day on Expo Day. Complimentary lunch is provided, and all are welcome to stay for our award ceremony in the afternoon
What to expect:
You’ll engage students in friendly, open-ended conversations about their work. Judges ask questions, encourage reflection, and help students recognize the value of their effort and learning.
Help on Expo Day
Love the energy of a big event? Join our Expo Day Volunteer Team and help everything run smoothly!
What Expo Day volunteers do:
Volunteers assist with a variety of tasks—greeting students and families, helping with check-in, guiding guests, setting up exhibits, or supporting the awards ceremony.
Who it’s for:
Anyone who wants to be part of a fun, positive community event supporting local youth! No STEM background is needed—just a friendly attitude and willingness to pitch in.
Time commitment:
Most Expo Day volunteers help for a half or full day on the day of the event.