The web Browser you are currently using is unsupported, and some features of this site may not work as intended. Please update to a modern browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge to experience all features Michigan.gov has to offer.
STEM Outreach Program
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.
2027 MDOT Bridge Challenge
The competition will be held on April 13, 2027.
-
Three female students watch as MDOT engineers test a bridge.
Guidelines
2027 Michigan Bridge Challenge applicationThe guidelines will be available soon.
Important dates
- Applications due: Nov. 2, 2026
- Bridge kits shipped: Nov. 13, 2026
- Proposals due: Feb. 2, 2027
- Acceptance notifications: Feb. 19, 2027
- Presentations: March 1-4 and 8-11, 2027
- Competition: April 13, 2027
Module overviews
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.