The Physics and Pre-Engineering clubs will host the 2026 Physics Olympics on Friday, March 20, welcoming high school students from across the region to campus for a day of hands-on physics challenges, teamwork, and exploration of STEM pathways.
Organized by members of the IUP Physics Club, a chapter of the Society of Physics Students, as well as the Pre-Engineering Club, the annual event—established in 1975—is designed to promote interest in physics and related disciplines through interactive, problem-solving-based competition. The Physics Olympics brings together students with interests spanning physics, engineering, medicine, and the natural sciences, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of modern STEM education.
During this event, teams will rotate through a series of physics-inspired challenges, including a Spaghetti Tower, Egg Drop, Paper Airplane Throwing, and a Jeopardy-style physics quiz, as well as a Mousetrap Cart speed competition that emphasizes engineering design and school-wide collaboration. Awards will be presented for individual event winners, as well as an Overall Grand Champion based on cumulative performance across all challenges.
Opening ceremony of the Physics Olympics
In addition to the competitions, participants will have opportunities to interact with IUP students and tour facilities in Kopchick Hall, offering a firsthand look at college-level physics instruction and laboratory environments. These experiences help students envision future academic and career paths in STEM while fostering leadership and organizational skills among IUP student volunteers.
Building on a long-standing tradition of community engagement and STEM outreach since 1975, the Physics Olympics continues to be a signature event for IUP’s physics community. By combining creativity, critical thinking, and friendly competition, the 2026 Physics Olympics aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers while strengthening connections between IUP and regional high schools.
