Tower City and Rocket Arena transformed into an innovation hub as 1,500 students and families discovered the exciting world of STEM careers.
This past Sunday, March 16, Tower City Center came alive with excitement as 1,500 students and their families gathered for the Score With STEM event in partnership with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The day-long celebration combined hands-on STEM learning with the thrill of NBA basketball, creating unforgettable experiences for young minds across Northeast Ohio.
A Day of Discovery and Innovation
Before heading to the Cavaliers game, participants explored interactive exhibits throughout Tower City, where leading Northeast Ohio companies and organizations showcased the fascinating intersection of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with everyday life and future careers.
Students launched model rockets, piloted drones, experimented with circuitry, and even tried their hand at rowing—activities designed not just for fun, but to spark curiosity about the underlying STEM principles that make these experiences possible. Underlying it all was an intentional focus on the strong link between STEM and sports.
“For some students, this was their very first hands-on experience with STEM concepts,” said Alyssa Lenhoff-Briggs, who serves on the NEOSTEM leadership team, “while others discovered career paths they never knew existed. Seeing those lightbulb moments when a child realizes they could actually do this for a living—that’s what Score With STEM is all about.”
Industry Leaders Inspiring Young Minds
The event brought together an impressive collection of Northeast Ohio’s leading STEM employers and educational organizations:
- Sherwin Williams demonstrated the science behind color and coatings
- Timken showcased advanced engineering principles through interactive displays
- Rockwell Automation highlighted how automation technologies shape the modern world
- Oatey illustrated the engineering behind plumbing systems and water conservation
- The Foundry introduced students to competitive rowing and the physics of water sports
- Great Lakes Science Center provided engaging scientific demonstrations
- LYF Foundation connected STEM skills with real-world applications
- ASM Materials revealed the fascinating world of materials science
Each organization created engaging, age-appropriate activities that transformed complex concepts into accessible learning experiences.
From Classroom to Career Pipeline
What makes Score With STEM particularly valuable is its focus on career pathways. Rather than presenting STEM as abstract concepts, the event connected these skills directly to exciting career opportunities available right in Northeast Ohio.
Game Time: STEM in Action
The excitement continued at Rocket Arena, where students witnessed STEM concepts applied by the STEM Playbook team who engaged hundreds strolling the concourse with hands-on sports and STEM learning.
Looking Ahead: Building on Success
Sunday’s Score With STEM event represents a growing commitment to STEM education across Northeast Ohio. By bringing together industry leaders, educational institutions, and a beloved sports franchise, the initiative creates unique pathways for students to envision their futures in STEM fields.
“By combining hands-on learning experiences with the thrill of Cavs basketball, we not only inspired the next generation of STEM professionals but also highlighted the critical role of STEM in the sports they already play,” said Patricia Conn, Senior Group Event Specialist for the Cleveland Cavaliers. “This event was a true testament to the power of collaboration and community engagement, as we worked together to provide unique opportunities and foster a deeper appreciation for STEM education in our region.”