BattleSTEM 2025: High School Teams Face Off at U of G

This past Thursday, the University of Guelph (U of G) welcomed over 1,000 high school students from 33 schools across Southern Ontario for the annual BattleSTEM competition. This full-day event invited students to compete in more than 32 hands-on challenges to test their skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The event focused on collaboration, creativity and developing a deeper understanding of STEM while offering a glimpse into university life.

"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, one of the event organizers and Outreach Manager in CEPS. “Both teachers and students truly appreciate the effort we put in U of G to create a fun and engaging experience. Many teachers tell us this event is a highlight of their academic year, and you can really feel that joy throughout the day.”

More than 100 volunteers and event coordinators played a crucial role in making BattleSTEM a rewarding and memorable experience for all involved.

Bonnie Lasby, event organizer and Academic Program Counsellor for the Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Mathematics, has led the BattleSTEM competition for the past 15 years with unwavering passion and commitment, says Hein.

As she steps down from her official organizer role, Bonnie’s leadership and dedication are deeply appreciated, says Hein.

The annual event was made possible through the generous support of the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Wellington Laboratories, Fisher Science, Actua, U of G Arboretum and Creative Encounters.

Here are just a few of the events students participated in throughout the day:

One Health Heros

In this rapid-fire problem-solving event, teams tackled real-world case studies that linked human, animal and environmental health. With only 20 minutes to strategize and minutes to present, students impressed a panel of judges with their creative and comprehensive solutions. 

Lightbot

Future programmers explored the basics of coding through an interactive robot puzzle game. As levels increased in complexity, students used logic and sequencing to guide Lightbot through maze challenges, one command at a time. 

Clean Water for a Sustainable World

Students designed and tested water filtration systems, simulating the work of environmental engineers. The goal was to produce the cleanest water while raising awareness for the global need for clean and sustainable water access.

Arboretum Pond Study

Students explored the biodiversity of the arboretum’s ponds, catching and identifying aquatic invertebrates. Friendly competition met hands-on science as teams learned about freshwater ecosystems up close. 

Trust Your Gut – Battle of the Microbiomes

Microbes went head-to-head in this board game battle! Students learned about the gut microbiome and disease prevention while building strategies to feed good microbes and launch attacks on opponents in a fun and educational game setting.