Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed April as Innovation and Technology Month in Illinois, according to an announcement on Apr. 1. The month-long recognition aims to highlight the contributions of technology and innovation to the state’s economy and society, featuring a range of events across Illinois.
The initiative is intended to showcase advancements in technology, encourage collaboration among industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators, and support the growth of technology-related programs, businesses, and startups. Events throughout April include STEM fairs for students from kindergarten through high school, public awareness activities about quantum science at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), hands-on expos focused on career readiness in STEAM fields (Science, Engineering, Technology, Arts, Mathematics), professional development workshops for educators, environmental education sessions for families, and celebrations like Earth Day.
One major event is the Annual Central Illinois STEM Fair scheduled for April 8 at Rochester High School Athletic Complex. The fair is open to K-12 students along with their families and teachers. World Quantum Day will be marked by UIUC’s Quantum Information Science and Technology Center on April 10 with activities designed to increase understanding about quantum technology.
On April 14-15, the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology will host its third annual CareerSpark STEAM Expo in partnership with Junior Achievement of Central Illinois. This free event offers interactive experiences aimed at sparking eighth graders’ interest in STEAM careers.
Other notable happenings include project-based learning opportunities through ideaU’s monthly video series; engineering exhibits at UIUC’s Engineering Open House; environmental workshops led by state agencies; art-and-science day camps; networking meetings for computer science educators; as well as resources supporting hybrid or remote learning environments.
The newsletter also highlights how art plays a role within STEM disciplines by profiling projects such as John Toenjes’ virtual reality dance game inspired by modern dance pioneer Loïe Fuller: “Fuller had her own theater at the Paris World’s Fair in 1900. She was hugely influential at the time. She was the Beyoncé or Taylor Swift of the early 20th century in terms of her popularity and influence,” Toenjes said.
Organizers encourage community members to participate in events or contribute ideas through their contact form.
