STEM Gulf Coast to Host STEM Saturday Focused on “Hydraulics and Simple Machines” on September 19, 2026
Hands-On STEM Experience for K-12 Students to discover the science behind hydraulics and simple machines
Gulfport, MS — STEM Gulf Coast, is excited to present STEM Saturday: Hydraulics and Simple Machines on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM at Gaston Point Recreation Center. This free, hands-on STEM experience provides K-12 students with the chance to put engineering concepts into action while building, experimenting and discovering how these technologies are used in the world around them.
As part of STEM Gulf Coast’s ongoing STEM Saturday series, students will explore the fascinating science of fluid mechanics by constructing working models of a hydraulic bridge and hydraulic elevator. Alongside STEM professionals and volunteers, participants will discover how force and pressure are transmitted through liquids to lift and move objects and observe how hydraulic systems function in real-world engineering applications.
“Hands-on STEM experiences give students the opportunity to move beyond learning how something works to actually experiencing it,” said Dr. Calvin Mackie, Founder and CEO of STEM NOLA | STEM Global Action. “When students explore hydraulics and simple machines, they discover how these fundamental concepts are applied in the world around them to solve problems, move objects, and make everyday tasks more efficient. Experiences like these encourage students to ask questions, think creatively, and recognize that they have the ability to design and build solutions of their own.”
Event Highlights:
- Hydraulic Bridge and Elevator Building: Participants design, build, and test their own hydraulic bridge and elevator!
- Hands-On STEM Learning: Students will dive into essential STEM concepts through the principles of friction.
- Free and Open to All K-12 Students: This event is designed for students of all experience levels and is open to the community.
Registration:
Space is limited! Parents and guardians are encouraged to register their students early to secure their spot: https://registration.stemnola.com/#/
Volunteers Needed:
STEM professionals and college students are invited to volunteer and help inspire the next generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators. Undergraduate college student volunteers receive a $50 stipend. To sign up as a volunteer, please visit https://stemnola.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=1310913.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Location: Gaston Point Recreation Center | 1505 Mills Ave. Gulfport, MS 39501
About STEM NOLA | STEM Global Action:
Founded by Dr. Calvin Mackie, STEM NOLA is dedicated to exposing, engaging, and inspiring students in grades K-12 to the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through hands-on programs and immersive learning experiences, STEM NOLA provides opportunities for students to build the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue careers in STEM fields. STEM Global Action, the nationwide expansion of STEM NOLA, aims to bring these experiences to communities across the U.S. and help develop a diverse and skilled workforce for the future.
Media Contact:
Mia Augillard
Director of Communications
STEM NOLA | STEM Global Action
maugillard@stemnola.com