CSO International

What an incredible year for the 2025–2026 Dayton Chief Science Officers! 🎉

This cohort of 19 student leaders from 13 districts across 3 counties explored STEM careers, connected with 50+ professionals, developed innovative solutions, mentored younger students, and represented their communities with professionalism and purpose. 🔬⚙️💡

Industry tours, FlexFactor innovation projects, outreach events, and leadership experiences gave these students the opportunites to demonstrate that young people are already making a meaningful impact in their schools and communities.

We’re so proud of this amazing group and thankful to the families, schools, and partners like DO STEM Ecosystem who continue supporting student leadership in STEM. 🙏

*Did your CSO program have an amazing year? Message our inbox with a high-res photo and a description of what your cohort accomplished this year, and we'll share it on social media!

Big congratulations to the Dayton Chief Science Officers team, Keep It Cool, for placing 3rd overall in the 2026 Regional FlexFactor Competition! 🎉

Isaiah and Jeff developed an innovative cooling vest for active-duty military personnel using flexible hybrid electronics to monitor body temperature and deliver cooling relief in the field. Along with a business pitch and model, they built a working prototype and began testing functionality.

We’re proud of all the Dayton CSOs and thankful to the Sinclair STEM Education & Partnerships Program and The Dayton Regional STEM Center for serving as co-advisors to these student innovators, along with FlexFactor instructor Julie Huckaba for her support throughout the year. 🏅

Next stop: the DO STEM Conference!

🎓 CSO Senior Spotlight

We’re celebrating graduating Chief Science Officers and the impact they’ve made through leadership, service, and STEM advocacy.

Today, we’re featuring Jessica J., an Arizona CSO whose experience highlights the power of professional development through the CSO program.

Follow along as we continue to recognize the CSO Class of 2026!