WALLA WALLA, Wash. -- In celebration of National Engineers Week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District is hosting its annual Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics competition for students across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, Feb. 23-27, 2026.
Throughout the week, USACE professionals from diverse fields will share their personal career experiences, offering insight into the varied paths to a rewarding career in STEM. By engaging directly with students, the district aims to showcase the impactful mission and opportunities of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
This year’s events will feature the “Paper Tower” challenge, a hands-on project where student teams will compete to build the tallest paper structure capable of supporting a two-pound weight. The sessions are designed to bridge classroom theory with real-world applications, encouraging students to solve practical engineering problems in a collaborative and innovative environment.
This outreach initiative is a key part of USACE's commitment to building the future STEM workforce. By investing in the next generation of innovators, the Walla Walla District is helping to ensure our nation's readiness to meet future challenges.
“Engineering is about solving real problems that affect real people, like protecting communities from floods, keeping rivers open for navigation and commerce, and helping produce clean, renewable energy,” said Lt. Col. Katie Werback, commander, Walla Walla District, USACE. “You don’t have to be ‘perfect at math’ to belong in engineering. If students are curious, like to build, or enjoy figuring out how things work, there’s a place for them in engineering.”
For more information, please visit the Walla Walla District’s National Engineers Week website at: https://www.nww.usace.army.mil/Missions/Engineering-and-Construction/National-Engineers-Week/