Michigan Technological University Center for Science and Environmental Outreach is dedicated to establishing partnerships and collaboration, connecting people and resources, developing capacity for education and outreach, and showcasing Michigan Technological University’s work in science, engineering, environmental research, and education.
Programs Provided
Community Engagement
The CSEO connects K–12 students, families, and communities with hands-on STEM experiences that inspire curiosity and build connections to the world around them. Our programs reach classrooms, after school groups, and families across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, with opportunities for both in-person and virtual engagement.
Signature programs include:
- Outdoor Science Investigations – Seasonal field trips that turn local forests, streams, and ecosystems into outdoor classrooms. Activities are aligned with Michigan Science Standards and help students practice real-world science skills.
- Invention Convention – A design-thinking program where students identify problems, invent creative solutions, and share their prototypes at our annual regional InventCon competition, with pathways to state-level recognition.
- Family STEM Nights – Fun, interactive events where families explore engineering challenges together in an informal, welcoming setting.
By partnering with educators, parents, and community leaders, we ensure every program is engaging, adaptable, and rooted in the needs of our local communities.
Educator Professional Development
The CSEO designs high-quality STEM workshops and multi-day institutes that empower educators across Michigan. Our programs go beyond one-time events, equipping teachers with lasting strategies and resources to bring back to their classrooms.
We emphasize Core Teaching Practices, Place- and Project-Based Learning, and Design Thinking, while partnering with MTU faculty, content experts, and community leaders. By connecting educators with innovative approaches and practical tools, we help teachers spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of learners.
Broader Impact Development
Strong broader impacts are essential for securing funding and ensuring research benefits society. The CSEO partners with STEM researchers to design customized broader impact plans that connect science with education, outreach, and community engagement.
We help investigators:
- Maximize the reach and impact of their research.
- Strengthen proposals for NSF and other funding agencies.
- Build collaborations that support a diverse scientific workforce.
- Translate research into accessible, meaningful applications.
Our support includes tailoring activities to your interests and field while aligning with agency requirements. Outcomes may include K–12 activities or curricula, teacher workshops, citizen science projects, exhibits, multimedia resources, or science communication training. Whether you’re seeking your first grant or expanding your research identity, we help craft broader impacts that are both fundable and impactful.