Shares How Science Centers Inspire Growth in Florida’s Technological Workforce

Thursday, February 26, 2026: 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

RCSA has joined with Orlando Science Center and other STEM advocates to assemble in Tallahassee for STEM Day at the Florida Capitol on Thursday, February 26. STEM Day is a dynamic event where museums, science centers, educators and foundations connect with Florida legislators. They use this opportunity to demonstrate the critical role these institutions play in inspiring the STEM workforce of tomorrow and to advocate for funding to support STEM education.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., legislators will learn how STEM education continues to grow Florida’s future technological workforce by engaging with hands-on activities, experiments, displays, and even robots! STEM Day emphasizes how science museums are a hub for STEM learning and have the opportunity to facilitate opportunities between industry, education and the public. Collaborations between science museums, corporations and education are key to developing a comprehensive approach in promoting STEM learning from cradle to career.

As our world continues to grow more complex and competitive, we are reminded that science matters now more than ever. Science literacy has the power to help individuals better understand life’s problems and develop the skills necessary to address them. It’s through study and experimentation that knowledge, innovation and prosperity are accomplished.  

Industry must partner with educational institutions and informal learning centers like science museums to start preparing our youth for jobs that don’t even exist yet. Regardless of the field they enter, tomorrow’s workforce must have a strong grasp of 21^st century skills like problem solving, critical thinking and collaboration. These skills are reinforced through active, challenge-based activities offered at museums and science centers.

STEM Day at the Capitol illustrates how collaborations with industry and academia can help fill the STEM pipeline, and RCSA is excited to take part in the event. Such partnerships provide opportunities to engage youth by bringing STEM subjects to life. By presenting the real-world applications of STEM skills in compelling ways, students are inspired to pursue further education and careers in STEM fields.

During STEM Day, participating partners share their passion for all things STEM with legislators, shining the light on the impact their efforts can have on economic development across the state. Displays at STEM Day encourage hands-on learning and reinforce how science museums light the spark of curiosity, promote future STEM careers and build essential 21^st century skills while also illustrating how increased funding could expand these efforts.

Participants can expect to experience a variety of engaging activities with the following exhibitors on STEM Day:

• Challenger Learning Center
• Dinosaurs Will Always Be Awesome
• For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology Robotics
• Museum of Discovery and Science
• Orlando Science Center
• Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science
• River City Science Academy
• Tallahassee Museum