On Tuesday, September 29, 2026, the fourth annual Lansing Construction Science Expo welcomed 307 students to Impression 5 Science Center in Lansing for a hands-on introduction to careers in engineering, construction, skilled trades, and infrastructure.

More than 60 industry, education, public-sector, and workforce development partners came together to give students an opportunity to explore the skills, technologies, and career pathways that support Michigan’s built environment. Through interactive demonstrations and conversations with professionals, students saw firsthand how engineering and construction help shape the communities where they live, learn, and work.

Engineering-Focused, Student-Centered

Engineering once again played a major role in this year’s expo, with ACEC/Michigan member firms and other partners providing interactive activities designed to connect classroom concepts with real-world applications.

Students explored a variety of engineering disciplines and technologies, learned how engineers approach real-world problems, and spoke directly with engineers and technical professionals about education and career pathways.

Among the demonstrations featured at this year’s event was a drone surveying demonstration by Spicer Group in the Cityside Lot, which gave students a firsthand look at how uncrewed aerial systems and modern surveying technologies are used in engineering and infrastructure projects.

Engineering exhibits throughout Impression 5 complemented outdoor activities and skilled-trades demonstrations, giving students exposure to the many professions required to plan, design, construct, operate, and maintain Michigan’s infrastructure.

Connecting Engineering and the Skilled Trades

The Construction Science Expo highlighted the wide variety of professionals needed to build and maintain Michigan’s future.

In addition to the engineering exhibits, students rotated through hands-on skilled-trades and construction activities featuring industry partners from across the region. By experiencing both engineering and construction disciplines in one setting, students gained a better understanding of how designers, engineers, technicians, contractors, and skilled tradespeople work together to move projects from an idea to reality.

Supporting Workforce Development Through Early Engagement

Ron Brenke, Executive Director of ACEC/Michigan, emphasized the importance of introducing students to engineering careers early:

“Events like the Construction Science Expo are vital in sparking interest among young students in engineering careers. By providing hands-on experiences, we can inspire the next generation to pursue paths that will shape and improve our communities.”

That early exposure remains important as engineering, construction, and infrastructure employers work to develop the next generation of Michigan’s workforce. Events such as the Construction Science Expo give students an opportunity to discover careers they may not otherwise encounter and to meet professionals who can help make those career paths feel tangible and attainable.

Partners in Engineering Education

ACEC/Michigan and its member firms were proud to support the 2026 Lansing Construction Science Expo and help students see the real-world impact of engineering.

Through interactive exhibits and direct conversations with professionals, participating firms demonstrated how engineers solve problems, use emerging technologies, protect public health and safety, improve transportation and water infrastructure, and help communities prepare for the future.

The event was made possible through the commitment of participating firms, agencies, educational organizations, skilled-trades partners, volunteers, and sponsors who contributed their time and expertise.

Looking Ahead

Now in its fourth year, the Lansing Construction Science Expo continued to provide an important opportunity to introduce young people to the many rewarding careers available within engineering, construction, and the skilled trades.

By bringing students and industry professionals together for a day of hands-on exploration, the Expo helped build awareness of the education, skills, and career opportunities that will be needed to design and construct Michigan’s future.

For more information or to get involved in future expos, visit www.constructionscienceexpo.com.