STEM EXCELLENCE
Behind every lap in NASCAR is STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math), powering the ideas and technologies that keep our sport moving forward. Through dynamic classroom experiences, hands-on exploration and collaborations across the industry, we help future innovators understand the science behind the sport and how these technologies shape their communities. Together, we’re opening doors to STEM careers, sparking curiosity and empowering the next generation.
For the full story on NASCAR’s STEM Excellence pillar, view the 2025 NASCAR IMPACT Report.
EXPERIENCES
PLANTING ROOTS THROUGH EDUCATION: NASCAR'S STEAMFEST IN CHICAGO
When NASCAR brought racing to Chicago, the sport committed to engaging youth across the city. Through STEAMFest, NASCAR and the Chicago Street Race engaged more than 70,000 Chicago Public Schools students across 50 STEM and STEAM schools in racing-inspired design challenges. Over three years, 1,600 finalists were invited to downtown Chicago to meet NASCAR drivers and engineers and compete for a chance to win tickets to Chicago Street Race Weekend.
STEM AT RACETRACKS: SCHOOLS, STUDENTS & DISCOVERY
Across the country, NASCAR tracks are transforming race weekends into classrooms for future innovators. At Talladega Superspeedway, about 500 middle school students each season test race radios, design electric cars with Greenpower USA, and even take laps around the track. Phoenix Raceway builds excitement through STEM-focused events with simulators, robotics, and interactive exhibits. Together, these track programs engage 1,000+ students annually, showing that racing isn’t just driven by speed — it’s powered by science, teamwork, and imagination.
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION: NASCAR, RICHMOND RACEWAY & AMAZON
In 2025, high school students from Central Virginia got an inside look at innovation during a tour of Amazon’s 650,000-square-foot robotics fulfillment center and Richmond Raceway. The experience offered hands-on insight into STEM, engineering, esports and media careers. Amazon also donated $25,000 to Henrico County Public Schools, supporting local STEM education and future opportunities.
CURRICULUM
FROM CONCEPT TO CLASSROOM: ENGINEERING THE FUTURE
NASCAR is fueling the next generation of innovators through its Crew Chief Internship, a racing-themed curriculum unit for middle school students developed by NASCAR’s R&D team. Students learn about all the variables that impact a race car’s speed, then design and race their own virtual cars as part of an interactive workbook. Piloted in Chicago and now active in North Carolina and Florida, the program is accessible to more than 25,000 public school students.
CAREERS
DEVELOPING FUTURE TALENT: NASCAR CAMPUS LAB
Launched in 2023 at Bethune-Cookman University, NASCAR’s HBCU Campus Lab prepares high-achieving students for careers in sports, entertainment and innovation. Each year, college students tackle real-world projects, create a NASCAR-themed campus event and present to industry executives. With scholarship awards and leadership development, the Lab is fueling the next generation of diverse changemakers across the sport. In 2024, NASCAR expanded the Campus Lab to Winston-Salem State University.
INNOVATION
DRIVING STEM RELEVANCE THROUGH INNOVATION
NASCAR’s Safety Innovation Team stands at the forefront of science and engineering in sports safety. Combining expertise in physics, biomechanics, materials science and data analysis, the team develops and tests technology that enhances driver protection and sets new standards for motorsports worldwide.
Over the last two-plus decades, NASCAR has reimagined its approach to safety, investing in research-driven solutions that have led to one of the strongest driver safety records in professional motorsports.