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STEM Outreach Program

Young students weigh their bridge structure as they participate in MDOT's TRAC Design-Build Challenge.

STEM Outreach Program

About the program

Since 2004, MDOT has been offering the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) STEM Outreach Program to schools in Michigan. The STEM Outreach Program is a hands-on STEM education program that aligns with AASHTO’s STEM Outreach Solutions and engages students in grades 7–12 with real-world challenges like bridge design, magnetic-levitation trains, and highway impact analysis. 

MDOT provides free educator training and classroom supplies. Educators can select curriculum-aligned modules that fit their lessons. Those using Bentley’s MicroStation software receive additional training from Bentley.

Students completing the STEM Outreach Program modules can apply for internships and scholarships. By connecting educators with ready-to-use materials and professionals in transportation, the STEM Outreach Program helps inspire future careers in civil engineering and public service.

For more information or supplies, contact Nathan Hanselman, STEM Outreach Program Manager, at 517-243-4010 or MDOT-TRAC-Program@Michigan.gov.

STEM Outreach teacher training

Educators must complete module training before requesting supplies. Use the form to request training. Want to host a training? Contact the STEM Outreach program manager.

2027 MDOT Bridge Challenge

The competition will be held on April 13, 2027.

Module overviews

  • Bridge Builder

    Building math skills

  • Design and Construction

    On the road to learning

  • Environmental

    Understanding it

  • Magnetic Levitation

    Learning is on the rise

  • Motion

    Physics on the move

  • Traffic Engineering and Safety

    Physics of highway safety

  • Traffic Technology

    Giving science the green light

Building bridges and futures Video

Building bridges and futures

MDOT's annual TRAC Bridge Build Challenge takes place each spring. Students submit a proposal, give a 10-minute presentation to industry professionals, and test their small-scale balsa wood bridges for a chance to win prizes and earn the championship title.

Learn more about the TRAC Program