Kaleidoscope Discovery Center will host its next Teen Science Café on Thursday, March 5, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This free event is designed for high school students ages 13–18 and provides an opportunity to engage directly with STEM professionals in an informal, interactive setting.
Our featured speaker is Alex Jackson, a Rolla High School graduate, Eagle Scout, and engineering student leader at Missouri University of Science and Technology. Jackson currently serves as Chief Engineer of the Missouri S&T Satellite Research Team, where he leads student engineers in the design and development of satellite systems.
Jackson’s experience includes internships with Warp Ware, BAE Systems, Space Dynamics Laboratory, and N.B. West Contracting, providing him exposure to aerospace systems, defense technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure engineering. His journey—from local student to leading cutting-edge satellite research—offers a compelling example of the STEM pathways available to area youth.
The Teen Science Café is part of Kaleidoscope’s mission to provide hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, art, and math that inspires youth to Imagine. Explore. Create. Through informal, conversational gatherings, participants engage with experts, ask questions, and gain insights into fields like systems engineering, technology development, and applied research.
“Bringing young professionals like Alex into an interactive out-of-school space lets students see firsthand how science and engineering solve real problems,” said Jill Fahrenholtz, Teen Science Café Program Coordinator. “These conversations not only deepen understanding but broaden students’ views of the many career opportunities available right here and beyond.”
The March session will include a presentation by Jackson followed by Q&A, interactive discussion, and guidance on pathways from high school STEM courses to careers in engineering and technology. Future cafés will continue throughout 2026 with monthly meetings featuring local and regional STEM leaders.
About the Teen Science Café Network
The Teen Science Café Network, a project of STEM Next, empowers teens to explore the frontiers of science and technology in a fun, informal setting. By connecting young people directly with STEM professionals, the program fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving skills. Each Café is designed with teen input, ensuring topics are relevant, engaging, and inspiring for today’s youth. With events happening in communities nationwide, the Teen Science Café Network is building a generation of informed, confident, and innovative thinkers ready to shape the future.
About Kaleidoscope Discovery Center
The Kaleidoscope Discovery Center in Rolla, Missouri, provides hands-on STEAM education that inspires children and teens across mid-Missouri. Serving more than 2,500 students annually through exhibits, competitions, and community programs, Kaleidoscope fosters curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Visit thekaleidoscope.org/tsc to learn more.
