News

Apr 13, 2026

Episode 7: State Tournament Preview

Lights, Camera, Science! 🎬 The 2026 State Tournament Preview. This week on The STEM Yard, host Alonzo Alexander sits down with NCSO Director Lisa Giacomelli and Science House Executive Director Jason Painter to preview the 2026 NC Science Olympiad State Tournament. Whether you’re a rookie or a veteran, this episode is your "director’s cut" for navigating the big weekend at NC State University on April 17–18, 2026. 

Mar 30, 2026

Episode 6: Rodolphe Barrangou

Get ready for an inside look at the frontier of biotechnology with Dr. Rodolphe Barrangou, a CRISPR pioneer and Distinguished Professor at NC State University. In this episode, Dr. Barrangou pulls back the curtain on his journey from student to the National Academy of Sciences, sharing why failure is actually a scientist's greatest asset and why he is so optimistic about the future of STEM. 

Mar 23, 2026

Episode 5: Circuit Lab

In this episode of The STEM Yard, host Alonzo Alexander welcomes back Everett Brostedt, an NCSO undergraduate assistant and the dedicated Event Leader for the Circuit Lab competition. Everett provides essential event information and resources to help teams prepare for both the test and hands-on portions of the event. Beyond the competition, Everett shares what inspired him to become an Electrical Engineering major and reflects on the importance of exploring diverse interests before committing to a field of study. His transition from a former NC Science Olympiad competitor to a student leader offers valuable perspective for anyone navigating the path from high school to a STEM career. 

Mar 9, 2026

Episode 4: Water Quality

Go behind the scenes with the NCSO undergraduate student staff, a dynamic group of former Science Olympiad competitors who turned their love of STEM into leadership, mentorship, and service. In this episode, Max Thai, John Palmer, Benjamin Bates, Everett Brostedt, and Azlyn Raja share their personal Science Olympiad journeys, favorite competition memories, and the experiences that shaped who they are today. 

Feb 25, 2026

Episode 3: NCSO Q&A

Go behind the scenes with the NCSO undergraduate student staff, a dynamic group of former Science Olympiad competitors who turned their love of STEM into leadership, mentorship, and service. In this episode, Max Thai, John Palmer, Benjamin Bates, Everett Brostedt, and Azlyn Raja share their personal Science Olympiad journeys, favorite competition memories, and the experiences that shaped who they are today. 

Feb 11, 2026

Episode 2: NCSO Student Staff

Go behind the scenes with the NCSO undergraduate student staff, a dynamic group of former Science Olympiad competitors who turned their love of STEM into leadership, mentorship, and service. In this episode, Max Thai, John Palmer, Benjamin Bates, Everett Brostedt, and Azlyn Raja share their personal Science Olympiad journeys, favorite competition memories, and the experiences that shaped who they are today. 

Feb 10, 2026

NCSO Valentine’s Day Cards

Love is in the air… and so is science! 💘🔬 This Valentine’s Day, celebrate the teammates, partners, and friends who make Science Olympiad so special. Whether you’re bonding over build tests, late-night studying, or competition day victories, our NCSO Valentine’s cards are the perfect way to share a little appreciation and team spirit. 

Jan 26, 2026

Episode 1: Rodney Smith

Principal Rodney Smith of Alston Ridge Middle School shares why the Science Olympiad matters, offering a school leader’s perspective on how NCSO builds teamwork, problem-solving skills, and a strong culture of STEM learning. 

Dec 1, 2025

FINAL Round: 2026 State Tournament Theme Contest

We Have Our Final 2! The 2026 NCSO State Tournament Theme Contest is coming to a close, and your top two themes are officially locked in. Be sure to vote TODAY to decide our 2026 State Tournament theme. 

Nov 24, 2025

Round 2: 2026 State Tournament Theme Contest

We Have Our Final 4! The 2026 NCSO State Tournament Theme Contest is heating up, and your top four themes are officially locked in. Be sure to vote TODAY to help choose who advances to the final round! 🔥 🗳️ How to Vote: Head to our Instagram Stories here: https://www.instagram.com/stories/ncsciolympiad/ Tap to vote for your favorite! Each round is open for 24 hours from the time it’s posted.