More than 200 middle school students spent June 10 and June 11 at Augustana University discovering how science, technology, engineering, and math connect to their own futures—and to the future workforce needs of Sioux Falls.
Now in its fourth year, the Your Future STEM Summer Day Camps are designed by the Sioux Falls Development Foundation and funded through Forward Sioux Falls to help students build early awareness of high-demand career pathways in construction, education, energy, engineering, healthcare, technology, and advanced manufacturing. As Sioux Falls continues to grow and diversify its workforce, giving students early exposure to these industries is one of the most important investments we can make in long-term talent development.
Middle school is a pivotal time for students to begin seeing themselves in future careers. It is also when academic habits, confidence, interests, and expectations begin to shape high school readiness, post-secondary planning, and long-term success.
“The pathway to tomorrow’s workforce starts before high school,” said Denise Guzzetta, Vice President of Talent and Workforce for the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. “Research from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that repeated STEM exposure before eighth grade increases the likelihood of pursuing post-secondary STEM by 3.4 times. That is why middle school is such a critical time to introduce students to career pathways in construction, engineering, healthcare, manufacturing, and other high-demand fields. Early STEM experiences help students connect classroom learning to real careers—from designing buildings and infrastructure, to advancing patient care, operating advanced manufacturing systems, and solving engineering challenges.”
Throughout the two-day camp, students participated in hands-on STEM lessons and career-connected activities led by Augustana educators, Sioux Falls-area businesses, and Augustana students. College students served as camp counselors and mentors, helping middle school students feel welcomed, supported, and excited to explore new possibilities. Morning rotations introduced students to biology, chemistry, education, and physics, giving them a foundation in core STEM concepts before applying those ideas through real-world activities with local employers. Aerostar led sessions on aerospace engineering and materials science, while POET introduced students to chemical engineering and biofuels.
A major enhancement in 2026 was the addition of afternoon industry tracks, which allowed students to choose a pathway aligned with their interests. Each track helped students connect STEM learning directly to careers that are growing in the Sioux Falls region.
The construction track, offered in partnership with the Home Builders Association of the Sioux Empire and the South Dakota Association of General Contractors, introduced students to skilled trades and the important role construction plays in supporting a growing community.
The engineering track gave students a look at the many ways engineering shows up in everyday life and industry. Students explored mechanical systems and robotics used in operations with HDR; learned how water purification treatment plants work with HR Green; designed schools and commercial buildings with ISG; and discovered how Viaflex creates eco-friendly membranes used as protective coverings.
The energy track focused on electricity and natural gas. Sioux Valley Energy’s mobile live wire trailer and MidAmerican Energy helped students better understand the systems—and the careers—that power homes, businesses, and communities.
The healthcare track, led by Avera Health and Sanford Health, helped students explore how the human brain functions while learning about related occupations in nursing, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. The sessions also highlighted the healthcare careers that will be essential as Sioux Falls serves a growing and increasingly diverse population.
The software engineering and technology track connected students to precision agriculture manufacturing with CNH and product development with Omnitech, including tools used in fintech, financial services, and other technology-driven industries.
For Forward Sioux Falls investors, the camp reflects a shared commitment to building the region’s future workforce earlier, more intentionally, and in direct partnership with employers. By giving middle school students meaningful exposure to STEM careers, the Your Future STEM Summer Day Camps help students understand why math, science, technology, creativity, and problem-solving matter—not someday, but now.
The goal is not only to inspire students for two days, but to help them build the awareness, confidence, and curiosity they need to keep exploring career pathways throughout high school, post-secondary training, and beyond.
As Sioux Falls grows, so does the need for a strong, skilled, and diverse talent pipeline. Investing in middle school STEM education is one way we can help ensure more students are prepared—and inspired—to step into the careers that will shape the future of our community.