STEAM

Open Registrations

4-H & Maine App Challenge Virtual Series
Tyler Technologies MaineApp Challenge Logo

  • Cost: Free
  • Ages: 13 – 18
  • Dates/Time: Tuesdays, March 3 – 24, 2026, from 4:00 – 6:00 pm
  • Registration Deadline: February 12, 2026
  • Capacity: Limited to 12 youth

The 4-H Maine App Challenge series will provide an introduction to Tyler Technologies’ Maine App Challenge and provide guided support for developing an app. This will be a 4-session series for ages 13+ that focuses on the foundations of developing a web-based application, including introduction to the Maine App Challenge. Participants will engage in design thinking, prototyping, and problem solving all while going through the process of developing their own app. At the end of the series, participants, if they choose, are able to submit their application to the Maine App Challenge for the chance to earn valuable prizes, including scholarships totaling $10,000. In this series, youth will engage in hands-on learning, computer programming, and design with guidance and support from experts at Tyler Technologies and 4-H. Participants will need access to a computer and be required to create a code.org login. Devices need to be one per participant (sharing a device is not advisable for this session). Tablets and mobile devices do not work with this platform. Participants must be Maine residents.

Contact sarah.sparks@maine.edu for more information.

For more information and to register: Registration Form

AI Virtual Series
young teen boy watching a virtual science cafe session

  • Cost: Free
  • Ages: 9+
  • Dates/Time: Wednesdays – February 25 – April 1, 2026 from 4:00 – 5:00 pm
  • Registration Deadline: February 12, 2026
  • Capacity: Limited to 10 youth

The 4-H Intro to Artificial Intelligence Club will provide an introduction to what artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are. This will be a 6-session series for ages 9+ that focuses on the foundations of AI, including an introduction to AI, pattern recognition, human versus machine learning, AI in daily life, and ethical awareness. Participants will take a closer look at how these are currently being used, learn about what AI does well and what it does not do well and considerations for using AI. Please Note: This program is only open to Enrolled Maine 4-H members until January 28, 2026.

Contact sarah.sparks@maine.edu for more information.

For more information and to register: Registration Form

Winter STEM Virtual Workshop Series
A person in snow gear, skiing in the snow in the woods.

  • Cost: Free
  • Ages: 9-18
  • Dates/Time: February 17, 18, 19, 20 from 10am to 11:15am
  • Registration Deadline: February 3, 2026
  • Capacity: Limited to 15 youth

This February, ignite a new appreciation for winter! Join our hands-on, curiosity-driven virtual science series designed for youth ages 10 and up. Through guided inquiry, investigation, and observation, we will explore all the wonders of the cold season. Get ready to transform your view of winter! Contact emily.booth@maine.edu for more information.

For more information and to register: Registration Form

4-H Aquarium Club

  • Cost: FreeA 4-her looks at his aquarium with plants and fish.
  • Ages: 5-18
  • Dates/Time: The club meets the first week of each month on Thursday evenings at 5:30 p.m.
  • Registration is open on a rolling basis. When you register you will be added to the mailing list to receive the Zoom link before the next meeting.

For more information and to register for Zoom link, visit the 4-H Aquarium Club page.

Aquaculture Virtual Field TripsImage of a boat in the ocean with areas from the virtual field trip highlighted.

Embark on a journey and explore the exciting world of Maine’s aquaculture industry with the Maine 4-H Aquaculture Education team’s Virtual Field Trips (VFTs). Our immersive experiences allow learners to virtually step inside aquaculture facilities, bringing them face-to-face with the fascinating processes of sustainable aquaculture. From the comfort of a browser or through the lens of virtual reality tools, these engaging excursions provide a unique opportunity to connect with industry experts, witness cutting-edge technologies, and gain a deep understanding of the vital role aquaculture plays in Maine’s food systems. Register Here.

Animal Health Explorer

Image of launch pad for the Animal Health Explorer Virtual Tour.

The new Animal Health Explorer brings virtual farm tours to you, right in the comfort of your own home! Take a tour through diversified livestock operations to see how other farmers prepare for, and prevent, disease and other livestock health management tips. This interactive experience functions a lot like Google Street View, allowing the user to have 360° access to their surroundings. Users will be guided to read, watch, and explore around real working farms of various sizes and stages of operation to learn about practical health best practices, as well as suggested improvements. Register Here.