NEIRSEF would not be possible without the support of dedicated volunteers and judges from our campus and community! Whether you are interested in helping with event logistics, evaluating student projects, or recognizing outstanding work through a special award, there are several ways to get involved.

Interested in Getting Involved?
Choose the registration option below that best matches how you would like to participate. We appreciate your time, expertise, and support in making NEIRSEF a meaningful experience for our students!

Fair Judges
Judges play a critical role in the success of the Regional Fair by evaluating student projects and providing valuable feedback and encouragement. Judging responsibilities vary by grade level:

• Grades 4–5: Judged by PFW education faculty, PFW science and engineering majors, and community volunteers.
• Grades 6–12: Judged by PFW faculty from the College of Science (COS) and the College of Engineering, Technology, and Computer Science (ETCS), STEM professionals, and community volunteers.

Special Award Judges

Special Award judges represent the investment of community organizations and individuals in the future of scientific and engineering research in Northeast Indiana. By reviewing student projects and selecting recipients for special awards, judges recognize excellence, encourage curiosity, and inspire students in grades K–12 to continue pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

General Volunteers
Volunteers help keep the Regional Fair running smoothly and provide a welcoming experience for students, teachers, and families. Volunteer opportunities include helping with fair setup, greeting participants, checking in projects, and managing doors during the fair.

What to Expect

Fair Judges & Special Award Judges

Judges should be prepared to:

• Attend the required judge orientation 
• Review student projects and judging criteria 
• Interview students about their research 
• Evaluate projects fairly and objectively 
• Keep student information and judging discussions confidential 
• Submit evaluations by the designated deadline 

Specific judging assignments, schedules, and instructions will be provided before the Regional Fair.

General Volunteers

Volunteer responsibilities and schedules will vary depending on the position. Instructions will be provided before Fair Day.

Who Can Volunteer or Judge?

We welcome participation from:

• Purdue Fort Wayne faculty, staff, and students 
• STEM professionals 
• Educators 
• Local businesses and organizations 
• Community members 
• Other individuals interested in supporting student STEM research 

Relevant expertise is helpful for some judging assignments, but you do not need to be a scientist or engineer to volunteer.

Thank You for Supporting Our Students!

Whether you spend the day interviewing students, selecting a special award recipient, greeting families, or helping behind the scenes, your involvement makes the Regional Fair possible.

Thank you for investing your time and expertise in the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

Questions?

For questions about judging or volunteering, please contact:

NEIRSEF
[email protected]