The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology is set to ignite curiosity and foster learning with its spring 2026 STEAM Cafe series, a collaborative effort with South Dakota Public Broadcasting and Hay Camp Brewing Company. This ongoing series of free, informal talks aims to make science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics accessible to all ages, typically held on the third Tuesday of each month at Hay Camp Brewing Company in Rapid City.
Kicking off the spring series on February 17, the university will host Kari Byron, a renowned STEM advocate and former presenter of the Discovery Channel’s “MythBusters.” Byron, who holds the distinction of being the longest-running female presenter in the channel’s history, will present “MythBusters” during Engineers Week. Her mission to make science accessible and exciting is expected to resonate with attendees, particularly the younger audience. This presentation will be held on campus at the Surbeck Center’s Beck Ballroom at 5 p.m., deviating from the usual schedule to align with Mines’ Engineers Week activities.
On March 17, Dr. Patrick Kozak, a South Dakota Mines alum and research scientist with the Center for Sustainable Solutions, will delve into the environmental impact of mining. His talk, “Reclaiming a Moonscape: Development of a Remediation Plan for Belle Fourche’s Historic Bentonite Mining Region,” will explore the characterization of conditions and development of remediation pathways for the region northwest of Belle Fourche, where bentonitic clay mining has been ongoing since the 1920s. Kozak’s presentation is poised to spark discussions on sustainable mining practices and environmental remediation, topics of growing importance in the mining industry.
The cultural diversity of South Africa will take center stage on April 21, as Dr. Gerrit Scheepers, assistant professor of music at South Dakota Mines and director of choral activities, presents “Languages in Harmony: The Sounds of South Africa.” Scheepers, a native South African, will explore the country’s major language groups through choral music, demonstrating how diverse languages and cultures are unified through song. The South Dakota Mines choirs will join him, offering attendees a unique blend of education and entertainment.
The spring series will conclude on May 19 with a presentation on South Dakota Mines student projects for Ellsworth Air Force Base. Lorie Vega, deputy director for the 28th Mission Support Group at Ellsworth Air Force Base, and student teams from South Dakota Mines will showcase their collaborative work. This presentation is expected to highlight the practical applications of STEAM education and the university’s commitment to community engagement.
The STEAM Cafe series not only provides a platform for learning but also fosters a sense of community among attendees. By bringing together university faculty, staff, visiting experts, and the public, the series encourages dialogue and collaboration. The mining industry, in particular, stands to gain from such interactions, as they can lead to innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of the sector’s impact on the environment and society.
Moreover, the series challenges the norm of formal, lecture-style presentations, opting instead for an informal, engaging format that is more accessible to a broader audience. This approach is likely to inspire other institutions to adopt similar initiatives, ultimately contributing to a more informed and engaged public.
In the mining industry, where technological advancements and environmental concerns are at the forefront, the STEAM Cafe series serves as a reminder of the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. By bringing together experts from various fields, the series encourages a holistic approach to problem-solving, which is crucial for the sustainable development of the sector.
Furthermore, the series highlights the role of education in driving innovation and progress. As the mining industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, initiatives like the STEAM Cafe series can help cultivate a new generation of professionals equipped with the knowledge and skills to meet these challenges.
In conclusion, the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology’s spring 2026 STEAM Cafe series is set to make a significant impact on the mining industry and the broader community. By fostering learning, encouraging dialogue, and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, the series is poised to shape the development of the sector and contribute to a more sustainable future.