Students Put Their Skills to the Test at BattleSTEM 2026

The University of Guelph once again welcomed more than 1,000 high school students from 33 schools across Southern Ontario for its annual BattleSTEM competition, a full-day event celebrating science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). With over 1,017 attendees this year, the event brought a vibrant sense of energy, creativity and collaboration to campus.

Students spent the day immersed in more than 30 interactive challenges designed to test their problem-solving skills while giving them a glimpse into university life. Each activity encouraged teamwork and critical thinking in a fun, low-stakes environment through hands-on engineering, science and design challenges.

“I love that students come not just to compete, but to be part of a community that shares their passion for STEM,” says Jean Hein, Outreach Manager in the College of Computational, Mathematical, and Physical Sciences (CCMPS) and one of the event organizers. “It’s an intense day, but the students are having fun and truly engaging with the experience.”

This year’s event also highlighted the lasting impact of BattleSTEM, with several volunteers returning after participating in the event as high school students. “They shared how important this event was in helping them choose the University of Guelph,” says Hein. “Now they’re giving back, which is incredibly meaningful.”

A standout feature of this year’s event was the introduction of 3D-printed Gryphon keychain prizes, created by a dedicated team including Raoul Vaz (CCMPS PhD student), Julia Billings (Creative Encounters Director) and Nicholas Yipp (Guelph Engineering Leadership). Months in the making, the custom prizes were a hit with both students and teachers, adding a unique and personal touch to the competition. Gryph, the University of Guelph mascot, also made a special appearance to help celebrate the winning teams.

BattleSTEM continues to provide an important opportunity for students to explore STEM in an accessible and engaging way.

“We want students to picture themselves as part of our STEM community and know they can do it,” Hein explains. “These events are competitive, but also informal—giving students the chance to ask questions and connect with peers and university students in a way they might not experience in the classroom.”

Volunteers and organizers remain at the heart of the event’s success. More than 100 volunteers contribute their time and enthusiasm, helping to create a welcoming and dynamic atmosphere. “I love the energy volunteers bring,” says Hein. “They’re often surprised by how much they enjoy interacting with high school students—it brings back their own memories and creates meaningful connections.”

BattleSTEM continues to be shaped by the passion and leadership of Bonnie Lasby, Manager of Undergraduate Studies for CCMPS, who has been a driving force behind the event for many years. She has helped build BattleSTEM into a signature experience at the University of Guelph, and her ongoing commitment to student success and creating meaningful academic pathways continues to leave a lasting impact on both participants and the broader STEM community.

Teachers also play a vital role in making BattleSTEM possible, coordinating transportation and supporting student participation. “These are incredibly dedicated educators who want their students to experience STEM beyond the classroom,” says Hein. “They love coming to campus, and many tell us this is a highlight of their academic year.”

As BattleSTEM continues to grow, its mission remains the same: to inspire curiosity, build confidence and show students that they belong in STEM. With enthusiastic participants, committed volunteers and strong support from educators, the event continues to be a memorable and impactful experience for all involved—one that many are eager to return to year after year.