BEYA Pre-College Experience

40 Years of STEM Innovation

For four decades, BEYA has inspired K–12 students to explore STEM careers. At BEYA40, we’re expanding our impact with innovative curriculum modules in Data Analysis, the Metaverse, and Quantum Computing—preparing students for the future of science and technology and building pathways to workforce success.

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New Curriculum Highlights for BEYA40

Data Analysis

Students master the full data cycle, explore industry-standard tools, and learn ethical web scraping for real-world STEM careers.

Quantum Computing

Students dives deep into the cutting-edge world of quantum technology. We explore the breakthroughs happening right now and tackle the industry's "Big Three" unsolved mysteries: Quantum Decoherence, Error Correction, and Stability.

Metaverse Exploration

Students discover how 3D digital environments are designed and used, explore current platforms, and learn about digital identity, safety, and storytelling. The curriculum encourages critical thinking about the metaverse’s impact on education, work, and culture, and aligns with state computer science standards. Curriculum aligns with Maryland and Michigan K–12 Computer Science Standards.

Full Course List

Course Description: Artificial intelligence is a controversial technology due to its newness in all fields of business. Yet the benefits of AI are undeniable; with thoughtful inputs, AI can generate millions of potential solutions that would take a human being months or years to develop through trial and error. The key is making sure the inputs net the expected results, and to do that effectively, the next generation of the work force must understand the basics of AI systems and how to use logic and ethics to generate the output that is needed for their careers.

Course Description: Artificial intelligence and learning language models are dependent on human inputs (often prompt generation) to create unique and innovative output. The quality of the input has different effects on the output, often very surprising ones. To create excellent products and output, the first step is to learn how to control and capitalize on those surprises through careful and thoughtful prompt generation.

Course Description: The best laid plans often go astray, to paraphrase John Steinbeck. Even with excellent, thoughtful inputs into an AI system, there can still be unforeseen issues with bias in data. Additionally, as society changes and grows, new parameters might need to be added to the data. This course will show you how to manipulate data to resolve bias (as much as possible) or to update existing data to refine the AI output.

Course Description: Data analysis is a multi-step cycle that informs itself. Many STEM students are excellent at the first steps – data generation and collection – but where do we go from there? This course explores all steps in the data cycle, from data generation to data presentation. Even the best data collection practices need strong analysis and most importantly, excellent presentation to make that data useful, valuable, and correctly understood.

Course Description: Data analysis, on a large scale, is not usually done by hand entirely; it relies on tools and programs to aid in this process for accuracy and speed. However, it can be tough to determine which tool is best for the job without a familiarity with the basic functions of the most used tools in data analysis. An overview of the most current data analysis systems will make up the bulk of this course.

Course Description: Where does data come from? Are there rules about how you can collect data online? Web scraping is one way to collect data online, with permission from the websites being scraped. It’s a great way to learn about trends, find unusual facts, and look at data in whole new light. It can also be used to “gamify” tasks and improve your own daily habits.

Course Description: We will speak on the myriad of opportunities available in cybersecurity and the steps students should take to prepare themselves in this burgeoning field of work.

Course Description: A joint session to discuss college financing and the admissions process. Everything you need to know about FAFSA, scholarships, what to expect when you matriculate, and where to find campus resources to help you get the most from your college experience.

Course Description: The metaverse is a rapidly evolving digital environment where people can connect, create, and collaborate in 3D spaces. While still emerging, the metaverse has the potential to transform education, business, and culture by blending virtual and real-world experiences. Understanding the metaverse allows learners to explore its creative possibilities while also considering the ethical, social, and economic implications.

Course Description: Quantum computing is a math-forward field of study that has new breakthroughs every year. What are the possible applications for a quantum computer, and how could quantum technology revolutionize our modern world?

Course Description: We will speak on the myriad of opportunities available in cybersecurity and the steps students should take to prepare themselves in this burgeoning field of work.

Course Description: In quantum computing, there are three major problems that have not been solved: quantum decoherence, error correction, and stability. These problems and the effects they have will be described along with the best solutions we’ve created so far. The person who solves these problems may be in the classroom today, waiting to claim their place in history!

Signature BEYA40 Experiences
Workforce Development

All programming is designed to help students build the skills, confidence, and connections needed for future STEM careers. Sessions emphasize real-world applications, emerging technologies, and the competencies employers value most.

Hands-on workshops

Led by top employers and STEM professionals

Mentorship and networking

With college students, engineers, and military officers

Career exploration

And college pathways in STEM

Connect

Connect with Colleges & Universities

BEYA40 brings together leading colleges and universities in the Pre-College Career Fair, offering students and families the chance to:

  • Discover a wide range of STEM programs and campus experiences
  • Meet admissions representatives and learn about scholarships
  • Explore pathways to higher education and future careers

Are you a college or university interested in supporting workforce development and engaging with talented students and educators?

We invite you to participate in the BEYA Pre-College Career Fair and showcase your programs to the next generation of STEM leaders. For details on how your institution can get involved, please contact us or visit our Employers page.

Location:

Baltimore Convention Center, Inner Harbor

Email:

Sblum@ccgmag.com

Date:

Friday, February 13, 2026

Testimonials

What Pre-College Participants & Families Say

  • “BEYA helped me see what’s possible in STEM. I met my first real engineer who encouraged me to keep learning.”
    — Jordan, 10th Grade Student

  • “My daughter came home inspired and excited about science. She’s now talking about college and careers I never imagined for her.”
    — Parent of a BEYA Pre-College Participant

  • “The hands-on workshops and meeting college recruiters made me feel confident about my future. I learned skills I can use in school and beyond.” — Maya, 11th Grade Student