3M, in collaboration with Discovery Education, has revealed the 37 State Merit Winners and four Honorable Mention recipients for the 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge. Now recognized as the leading science competition for middle school students in the United States, the challenge celebrates young innovators whose creative ideas demonstrate how science can address everyday challenges and create positive change.

Students in grades 5 through 8 participate by submitting a short video describing an original scientific solution to a real-world problem. Entries are judged on innovation, scientific understanding, and communication skills. This year's submissions covered a wide range of fields, including robotics, home improvement, automotive technology, safety, augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), and climate-focused innovations.

William Brown, Chairman and CEO of 3M, emphasized that the competition showcases the ability of young people to combine scientific knowledge with creativity to solve practical problems. He noted that 3M remains committed to encouraging and supporting these future innovators as they develop ideas capable of making a meaningful impact.

Every year, the competition honors one Grand Prize winner, 10 finalists, four Honorable Mention recipients, and up to 51 State Merit Winners, representing all 50 U.S. states and Washington, D.C. The 2026 State Merit Winners and Honorable Mention recipients were selected based on their enthusiasm for science, originality, problem-solving abilities, and effective presentation skills. State Merit Winners receive recognition on the official challenge website along with a commemorative prize package.

2026 State Merit Winners
The following students were selected as 2026 State Merit Winners, listed alphabetically by state:

2026 Honorable Mention Recipients
In addition to the State Merit Winners, four students earned Honorable Mention recognition for their exceptional creativity and strong communication skills:

Brian Shaw, Chief Executive Officer of Discovery Education, highlighted the importance of helping students connect classroom science with real-life applications. He remarked that the 3M Young Scientist Challenge inspires students to view STEM as a powerful tool for solving meaningful problems and congratulated all participants for their imagination, dedication, and perseverance.

Continuing a Legacy of Innovation
Celebrating its 19th year, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge continues to encourage middle school students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through innovative thinking and practical problem-solving. Alumni of the competition have gone on to deliver TED Talks, secure patents, establish nonprofit organizations, earn places on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, and showcase their work at the White House Science Fair.

To strengthen this growing community, the 3M Young Scientist Challenge Alumni Network, established in 2022, now includes more than 100 former winners, finalists, and mentors, providing opportunities for collaboration, networking, and continued engagement in STEM.

STEM Learning Resources
The competition is supported by the Young Scientist Lab, a free digital learning platform jointly developed by 3M and Discovery Education. The program offers standards-aligned, hands-on science activities designed to foster curiosity, creativity, and STEM skills among students of all ability levels. These resources are also available through Discovery Education Experience, helping educators, students, and families bring engaging science learning into classrooms and homes alike.

Click here to know more.

Henkel, a prominent producer of well-known consumer and industrial products—including Dial soap, all laundry detergent, and Loctite, Technomelt, and Bonderite adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings—will host a series of interactive educational events throughout October to mark Manufacturing Day. This annual recognition is organized by the Manufacturing Institute, the workforce development and educational branch of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM).

During the month, Henkel’s sites in Delaware, OH; Salisbury, NC; Richmond, MO; Mentor, OH; and Greenville, SC will welcome high school students, providing a first-hand look at the dynamic career paths in modern manufacturing. Under the guidance of Henkel’s site leaders, students will explore the company’s technologies and gain insights into the wide array of roles that enhance efficiency, innovation, and sustainability across the production process.

Henkel’s Manufacturing Day activities reflect the company’s dedication to education and its ongoing efforts to give students of all ages access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) resources and career information. Additionally, employees from locations including Bowling Green, KY, will engage with the community at local events and career fairs to highlight opportunities in today’s manufacturing sector.

“Inviting students into our facilities across the country is a powerful way to demonstrate how manufacturing has evolved,” said Rajat Agarwal, President of Henkel North America. “Modern manufacturing is fueled by innovation, advanced technology, and committed professionals who recognize its role in building a sustainable future. Through these events, Henkel hopes to ignite curiosity about the wide-ranging opportunities in manufacturing and help prepare the next generation for success.”

“Since its inception in 2012, Manufacturing Day has introduced tens of thousands of students to career options in manufacturing—jobs that offer competitive wages, stability, and growth potential,” said Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director of the Manufacturing Institute. “This year, we are proud to continue connecting students with hands-on experiences that open doors to future careers. Henkel serves as a strong example of a company educating and inspiring the workforce of tomorrow through Manufacturing Day and related initiatives.”