Noche de Ciencias or Night of Science is a national program of SHPE and was initiated in 2008 as a way to introduce students and families to science and engineering through hands-on activities and exposure to college and career information in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The USPTO, in collaboration with SHPE, is hosting Noche de Ciencias on November 7 and is expecting to draw 400 area students and their families.  A panel discussion for parents will take place covering financial aid, college admissions, and scholarships in both Spanish and English will be provided. There will also be hands-on STEM activities designed to help develop problem solving, inventive thinking, and introduce intellectual property concepts—such as invention, patents, and trademarks—to K-12 students.

The USPTO is inviting other STEM-focused federal agencies to exhibit and share information about careers in their respective fields.  

Exhibitors are highly encouraged to set up booths introducing K-12 students to possible STEM career paths in their agencies and/or provide hands-on activities that engage the students and promote STEM