Make it a “thing”

until it becomes
A THING

SFDI was founded by Science Fair Directors from across the United States, created from the need for support of a network of Science Fair Directors who run regional and state science & engineering fairs. With over 80 years of experience in operating science and engineering fairs, our team is looking to energize student competitions and enable leadership in local communities.

We believe that science and engineering fairs are not only platforms for students to showcase their creativity and ingenuity, but also catalysts for fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a lifelong passion for learning. By providing a forum for collaboration, resource sharing, and skill development between directors and the educators they serve, we aim to elevate the standards of science research education and encourage the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.

Our Mission: Empower science fair directors by providing comprehensive knowledge, essential tools and effective strategies to orchestrate transformative and impactful science and engineering fairs. Fostering a culture or curiosity and innovation among participating students.

Our Vision: Science fairs are vibrant community gatherings that serve as a “town square” for the greater STEM community and empower students to fulfill their potential.

Our Team

  • Emily Meyer - President

    Home Fair:Greater Kansas City Science & Engineering Fair

    First Poster Presentation - conference in Washington DC after university.

    Emily has been the director for the Greater Kansas City Science and Engineering Fair and STEM Program Manager for Science City at Union Station since 2017. Previously she did informal science education consulting for multiple organizations. She has a Masters Degree in Education and worked in research studying cellular topology and molecular genetics in Drosophila melanogaster.

    With a love of education and a passion for research (along with excitement for competition) Emily is eager to help grow and support the amazing community of Fair Directors.

    LinkedIn

  • Alexa Groff - Vice President

    Home Fair:State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa

    First Science Fair Project: Acids vs Bases on Red Cabbage (4th Grade)

    Alexa has been involved in science fairs since before she was born. Her grandpa started the state Science fair in Iowa in 1957. Alexa has been involved as a student, volunteer, teacher, parent, board member, regional director, and now state director. Alexa was never an ISEF finalist (her 3-siblings were), however as a teacher for 7 years she had 11 finalists, and 6 observers. Alexa has increased participation with her state fair including schools, projects, and volunteers. She has implemented new initiatives like school banners for STEM recognition. When Alexa is the STEM Education Specialist for Iowa 4-H at Iowa State University, most weekends she can be found spending time with her daughter and traveling.

    LinkedIn

  • Jordan Krell - Vice President

    Home Fair:Flint Regional Science and Engineering Fair (MI)

    First Science Fair Project: Smart Seat: A Safer Child’s Car Seat (10th grade)

    Jordan has been involved in science fair since high school, attending ISEF multiple times as a competitor (even winning a few times). Director of the Flint Regional Science and Engineering Fair since 2014, he enjoys working with students to take their projects to the next level and implementing the “one thing” each year to make the FRSEF the best possible student experience. Jordan is a connectivity engineer for Bosch Motorsport and most weekends can be found behind a laptop at a race track.

    LinkedIn

  • Jody Oostema - Treasurer

    Home Fair:University of Utah Science and Engineering Fair

    First Science Project: Pop Goes the Popcorn (daughter’s middle school project).

    Jody's journey with science fairs began unexpectedly when her daughter's last-minute project won first place in the middle school science fair, sparking her passion for the organized chaos of science fair coordination. Joining the Salt Lake Valley Science and Engineering Fair (SLVSEF) in 2005, she fell in love with the structured nature of her role as Program Manager. Jody has since become a fervent advocate for science fairs, tripling student finalists, creating a Student Advisory Board, and successfully transitioning SLVSEF into the University of Utah Science and Engineering Fair (USEF) in 2017.

    Jody’s focus is on outreach programs that address socioeconomic barriers and champion Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Her unwavering enthusiasm stems from the unbridled creativity and determination of science fair students, inspiring her to share her knowledge through SFDI and contribute to the evolution of science fairs nationwide.

    LinkedIn

  • Michael Blueglass - Director of Communications

    Home Fair:Regeneron Westchester Science and Engineering Fair (NY)

    First Science Project: Handicap accessible pot/pan holder (daughters’ elementary project)

    Michael started in 2001 the Science Research Program at Yorktown High School in Westchester County, New York. This STEM research elective grew and would eventually lead to ASRT ( Advancing STEM Research Teaching Program). ASRT helps teachers from around the country that are involved in providing STEM research projects for their students. This customized program helps teachers to reach their goals and overcome obstacles specific to their school/region (size or demographic).

    In 2001 Michael also started the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair (WESEF). Officially called the Regeneron-WESEF, this high school only, ISEF-affiliated science fair hosts approximately 700 high school students annually and sends 20 top projects to represent the region at the Regeneron-ISEF.

    LinkedIn