STEM Outreach Solutions

Important Dates

January 24, 2026
FDOT State Bridge Competition
February 6, 2026
National Proposals are due to AASHTO
March 2, 2026
Notification of Finalists
April 13–15, 2026
National Competition at AASHTO Spring Meeting

Driving the Future: STEM Pathways for Transportation Careers

Florida’s growing population depends on a strong transportation system — and that means we need the next generation of problem-solvers ready to take on big challenges in civil engineering and transportation.

To spark that interest, the Florida Department of Transportation has partnered with AASHTO STEM Outreach Solutions to offer hands-on learning modules designed for middle and high school classrooms.

This initiative is part of a larger pipeline to grow Florida’s transportation workforce and show students the wide range of careers that keep our state moving.

Florida students place 3rd at the National Bridge Competition

Florida students place 3rd at the National Bridge Competition

Inspiring Students, Empowering Teachers

For Students:

The program sparks curiosity, showing how classroom learning connects to real-world challenges in transportation. Students see firsthand how their skills can translate into a rewarding career.

For Teachers:

The program provides resources and hands-on tools that make STEM engaging and accessible, helping educators inspire the next generation of problem-solvers.

Building Bridges: A STEM Learning Experience

Florida middle and high school students are discovering how civil engineering shapes the world around them by building bridges.

Florida educators in 7th–12th grade take part in customized, hands-on training on the AASHTO Bridge Module, which is a self-contained curriculum designed around real-world engineering and transportation challenges.

Students explore:

The science behind bridge design and construction
How forces like tension and compression impact stability
Problem-solving techniques engineers use every day

By connecting STEM concepts directly to civil engineering and transportation, the Bridge Module inspires curiosity, strengthens critical thinking, and introduces students to the exciting career opportunities that keep Florida moving forward.

FDOT State Bridge Competition

Each year, Florida hosts a State Bridge Competition for middle and high school students. Students compete using guidelines from the annual national bridge competition for awards in three categories based on age.