Sandia hosted the virtual regional DOE National Science Bowl for middle and high school students in New Mexico and California in February, inspiring youth to pursue careers in STEM. The competition is a nationwide academic event that tests students’ knowledge in all areas of science and mathematics. Teams compete in a fast-paced Q&A format, answering questions about subjects like earth and space science, physics, biology, mathematics and energy.

Winning regional teams from across the nation, including La Cueva High School, Mission San Jose High School, Los Alamos Middle School and Pleasanton Middle School, will compete in the semifinals in May with a chance to advance to the national championship in July in Washington, D.C.

Special volunteers make their mark with the youth

The DOE National Science Bowl relies heavily on volunteers to serve as moderators and scorekeepers. More than 40 Sandia employees volunteered as moderators and scorekeepers.

Sandia electrical engineer Dan Riley has been officiating the DOE Science Bowl for 14 years. As a former high school competitor, he is passionate about carrying the torch to instill a love for STEM in today’s youth. “I get the same sense of anticipation that a child does before Christmas when the science bowl is around the corner,” Dan said.

Dan, a father of five children, began coaching in 2019 with students at Eisenhower Middle School. He assists his daughter’s team weekly to practice reviewing and answering science-related questions, listen to short fact-filled lectures and connect with her classmates.

“An important component to officiating and coaching is engendering a love for STEM fields and encouraging students to become the next generation providing STEM solutions for the world,” Dan said. “It’s wonderful to see kids that may be hesitant at first now diving headfirst into STEM when they come into contact with some friendly competition through these events.”