Pre-College Engineering Program
Engineering… because dreams need doing!
At CU Boulder, our Pre-College Engineering program sparks curiosity and builds confidence in the next generation of innovators. Our mission is simple: empower K–12 students to explore engineering, develop real-world skills, and discover their potential in STEM careers.
Through dynamic partnerships with schools, community organizations, and CU Boulder programs, we deliver hands-on, interactive experiences that make engineering and related STEM concepts come alive—whether it’s after-school programs, campus visits, summer camps, or community events.
As part of the College of Engineering and Applied Science’s Research Support Office, we’re committed to creating opportunities that inspire. We welcome collaborations with on- and off-campus partners to fund, design, and implement innovative K–12 STEM programming that makes a lasting impact.
Program Contact
Jennifer Taylor
Director of Pre-College Engineering
ITLL 2B03
Shaping Tomorrow's Problem Solvers Today
Our programming is built around four guiding principles:
1. Raising the level of technological literacy of students through building their engineering skills and comprehension of our dynamic modern world.
2. Engaging students in the engineering design process while deepening their understanding of fundamental STEM concepts and interrelationships.
3. Improving student learning through hands-on and project-based engineering activities that are connected to everyday STEM applications.
4. Introducing exciting career paths in engineering and opening students’ eyes to how our lives are enriched by the valuable work of engineers.
Our Initiatives
The Pre‑College Engineering program brings the "E" in STEM to life through meaningful K–12 engineering experiences. Using project‑based learning grounded in the engineering design process, CU students mentor younger learners through a near‑peer model. Each year, the program reaches over 3,000 students through more than 100 programs and events.
The Pre‑College Engineering team brings engineering to life for K–12 students through interactive, standards‑aligned programs. By partnering with schools, community organizations, and campus programs, we create and deliver hands‑on learning experiences that build STEM skills and inspire students to explore future pathways in engineering and applied science.
The Pre‑College Engineering program partners with faculty to turn broader impact goals into meaningful K–12 experiences, from proposal development through program delivery. Opportunities include engagement in after‑school engineering programs, high‑profile campus and community STEM activities, collaborative summer engineering camps, and research-related teacher professional development.