Youth across the state can stretch their problem-solving skills by attempting an edible and engineering-minded task.

North Dakota 4-H has introduced the 2026 North Dakota 4-H STEM Challenge, which is an exercise involving science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The challenge is not a competition but an accessible, independent activity to engage youth and adults in STEM throughout the year.

The 2026 challenge, the Edible Engineering Experiment, tasks participants with designing and building a bridge made from only four full-size chocolate bars, without glue, tape, wrappers or any reinforcements. Youth must create a bridge structure that can hold the greatest possible weight while meeting all design specifications. The activity guide can be found at ndsu.ag/STEMchallenge-26.

“When the National 4-H STEM Challenge was discontinued, the North Dakota 4-H STEM team committed to providing engaging, hands-on STEM learning experiences designed to spark interest in science or engineering learning,” says Margo Bowerman, North Dakota State University Extension 4-H STEM specialist.

The 2026 North Dakota 4-H STEM Challenge is open to all North Dakota youth through local 4-H clubs, after-school programs, classrooms, home schools and community groups. 

For more information about educational activities for youth, contact a local NDSU Extension office.

North Dakota 4-H is a program of NDSU Extension.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – Jan. 27, 2026

Source: Margo Bowerman, 701-231-4263, margo.bowerman@ndsu.com

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu