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Indiana STEM Education Conference
January 14, 2027
12th Annual Indiana STEM Education Conference
STEM by Design: Building Meaningful Learning Experiences
What does it take to create a STEM learning experience that students never forget? That is the question at the heart of the 2027 conference theme: STEM by Design: Building Meaningful Learning Experiences. Presentations will explore innovative strategies and resources to help you design STEM learning experiences that are engaging, relevant, and unforgettable. The conference will also include:
- Professional Growth Points for teachers
- Over 60 presentations on STEM curriculum, STEM instruction, STEM careers, and STEM research
- Networking with STEM education vendors
Keynote Speaker
Rick Crosslin
Rick Crosslin has spent over 50 years proving that science belongs in every classroom, every community, and every curious mind. He is a recently retired educator from MSD Wayne Township in Indianapolis, where he served as the Scientist in Residence for 12 elementary schools.
Few educators have reached as many students in as many ways as Rick. Through his Emmy Award-winning PBS series “Indiana Expeditions,” Science Summer Safari, and his ongoing Science Spectacular programs, Rick has brought hands-on, joyful science learning to students of all ages. His work has also taken him to national stages, developing projects for NASA, the FAA, and National Geographic. Along the way, he has earned recognition that reflects the depth of his impact, including the 1998 Milken Educator Award, the 1990 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science Teaching, and the Christa McAuliffe Award.
At the 2027 Indiana STEM Education Conference, Rick will draw on his expertise with hands-on demonstrations, engaging audiovisuals, and audience interaction to deliver an impactful experience for every attendee. Come ready to engage, discover, and leave inspired. You will walk away with new ideas and a renewed passion for bringing STEM to life for every student you teach.
Keynote Speaker
Dr. Kristen Poindexter
Dr. Kristen Poindexter has been a dedicated Kindergarten teacher in MSD Washington Township for over two decades. A passionate advocate for early science and STEM education, she fosters curiosity and wonder in young learners every day. Dr. Poindexter is a nationally recognized educator, receiving honors such as the 2014 Shell Science Teaching Award, the 2014 Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching, and Ball State University’s Outstanding Alumni Award in 2023. She has held multiple leadership roles with the Hoosier Association of Science Teachers, Inc. and serves on educational councils for both the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Zoo. She recently earned a doctorate in Science Education from Indiana University. Dr. Poindexter will share her journey into STEM, her classroom experiences, and insights on inspiring the next generation of STEM learners.
Lead Sponsor
Purdue Polytechnic Indiana Manufacturing Competitiveness Center (IN-MaC)
IN-MaC is the Lead Sponsor for the 2026 Indiana STEM Education Conference. They are dedicated to advancing manufacturing competitiveness in Indiana through digital transformation. Learn more about IN-MaC’s signature initiatives making a difference in K-12 education: Design Innovation Studios and Pathway Systems.
Registration Fees
Early Bird Registration
Register before December 10, 2026, to save $20!
$90
Before Dec. 10
$110
After Dec. 10
Speaker Propsals
Submit a Presentation Proposal
Interested in PRESENTING at the conference? Have a great STEM activity or idea to share? Submit proposals using the button below. Proposals are due by October 8, 2026.
Research briefs will be published as proceedings through Purdue e-Pubs. Visit the conference proceedings page to learn more.
Sponsorship
Invest in STEM Educators
The Indiana STEM Education Conference provides exposure for companies and organizations to an audience of potential clients. The primary audience is K-12 STEM teachers and administrators. The conference also draws STEM education faculty, graduate students, and STEM focused businesses.
Possible sponsorship benefits include conference admission, listing in the conference program, presentations during the conference, and the ability to interact with conference attendees during designated exhibit times.
Schedule
8:00 A.M.
Registration opens – Stewart Center foyer under the mural (outside of Loeb Playhouse)
8:30-10:00 A.M.
Welcome, keynote speaker
10:10-11:00 A.M.
Session one
11:00-11:40 A.M.
Break, Exhibit Hall
11:40 A.M. – 12:30 P.M.
Session two
12:30-1:30 P.M.
Lunch, Exhibit Hall
1:30-2:20 P.M.
Session three
2:30-3:20 P.M.
Session four
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