As an eighth grader at the Challenge School in Aurora, John Finnessy (pictured below right) developed a robotic hand using sensors to create an “artificial nerve” that allows it to pick up objects. When he set out to accomplish this feat of engineering, John admits that he didn’t know how to code, how circuits worked, or what a breadboard or Arduino was. Over five months, he learned about all of these components, which he ultimately employed in the robotic hand he presented at the 2025 CoorsTek Denver Metro Regional Science and Engineering Fair (DMRSEF). John’s curiosity and initiative paid off as his project took first place in the Engineering category.

Science fairs date back nearly a century, and those today provide insight into the future that new generations of scientists and engineers would like to create. At this year’s CoorsTek DMRSEF, prize-winning projects included exploring the potential for using hydrogels in microbots that can target cancerous tumors; testing plant-based treatments for diabetic foot infections; and using bioacoustics to investigate how fire mitigation influences avian biodiversity.

Nurturing a New Generation of Problem Solvers

CU Denver has proudly hosted The CoorsTek DMRSEF since 2017, bringing together middle and high school students from across the seven-county metro area to present original research projects in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Much more than an annual competition, the CoorsTek DMRSEF provides year-round programming that supports participating students throughout the entire research process.

This culminates in the day-long event held on campus each February when experts from academia, industry, and beyond judge the students on the creativity, rigor, and potential impact of their work. In addition to presenting their projects at the event, students have the opportunity to engage with representatives from industry, organizations, and CU Denver departments to learn about careers and participate in hands-on activities. Top performing students earn the opportunity to advance to the Colorado Science and Engineering Fair and ultimately to the International Science and Engineering Fair.

“It’s incredibly inspiring to witness the insight and academic rigor these young scientists demonstrate,” said CU Denver Chancellor Ken Christensen, himself a professor of mechanical engineering. “We are proud to support their curiosity and innovation. These students are not just engaging in science and inquiry—they are building the foundations for tomorrow’s breakthroughs.”

CoorsTek: An Active and Engaged Partner

The fair is made possible through the generous support of philanthropic partners, including lead sponsor CoorsTek. Based in Golden, CoorsTek is a leading global manufacturer of technical ceramics, developing new materials and technologies for a wide variety of industries including semiconductor, medical and aerospace. Executives from CoorsTek’s actively participate in the fair and engage with the student participants. In addition to serving as judges and mentors, they host the fair’s winners for a tour of the CoorsTek research and manufacturing facilities, where the students enjoy the opportunity to see scientists and technology at work and imagine what their future careers could look like.

“CoorsTek and its employees are proud to partner with CU to make this fair a success every year,” said Randel Mercer, Chief Technology Officer for CoorsTek. “We are a highly technical company and believe that creating science and engineering growth opportunities for young folks is critical for the future.”

Igniting Careers Through Industry Partnerships

CU Denver’s leadership in the CoorsTek DMRSEF reflects the university’s broader commitment to promoting a diverse and highly skilled workforce for the region. “Through our involvement in and support of the CoorsTek DMRSEF, CU Denver is helping to nurture the next generation of problem-solvers and building a more diverse and inclusive talent pipeline in Colorado and beyond,” said Chancellor Christensen, who joined a group of prize-winning students on their tour of the CoorsTek labs in July (pictured at right).

Additionally, strong industry partnerships, like the one the university enjoys with CoorsTek, help create pathways for college students to gain professional experience and connect with employers before they graduate. They also help inform CU Denver’s curriculum to ensure students graduate with in-demand skills and competencies that allow them to hit the ground running as they launch their careers.

The future scientists, engineers, and researchers who benefit from the CoorsTek DMRSEF’s ecosystem of inquiry and encouragement also demonstrate that innovation with far-reaching potential begins at home. “Any question, big or small, becomes approachable when viewed through the lens of the scientific method,” said Mercer. “By introducing this mindset early, the DMRSEF not only fosters critical and rational thinking about global issues but also inspires students to envision careers in science and technology—broadening their sense of what’s possible for themselves and for the world.”