One of my favorite events of the year is coming to Bremerton on April 5 and 6. It is the 56th Annual Washington State Science and Engineering Fair (WSSEF) which is held every year at Bremerton High School.

Science Fair participants include public, private and home schooled children, in grades 1 to 12, from all over the State of Washington.

The quality of the projects and the work that these students have put into their presentations over the past year or last few months is extremely impressive. These participants are the next generation of problem solvers who will tackle and solve the scientific, engineering and environmental problems we face today and in the foreseeable future.

Many of the sponsors for this event are well known, recognizable companies or agencies who are watching and scouting very closely the talent pool of up-and-comers in science and engineering.

The generosity of their combined volunteer time and financial investment in making this event possible is outstanding. Thanks to them more than one million dollars in scholarships and prizes are given out every year to the participants. Some students are even invited to advance or participate at regional or national science fairs with their travel expenses paid for them.

The registration deadline for the WSSEF is fast approaching. All entries must be postmarked no later than Saturday, March 16.

If your child has completed a project for their school or district this year, I highly recommend that they seriously consider entering their project in this event.

The application form and more information regarding the rules for submission can be located at wssef.org.

If you have missed the entry for this year, think about attending this event with your own children. Let them see what other students in their same age and grade bracket are accomplishing.

It is never too early to start planning, researching or investing in a project idea that could be entered into next year’s State Science Fair. My own son participated for the very first time last year and won a special categorical award for his efforts. He was thrilled and could not wait to begin working on his project for this year.

As the host community, I would love the see the participation level and the number of Bremerton School District student entries increase. We are very fortunate to have such a wonderful education-related opportunity right here in our own backyard.

Support your local scientist-in-development.