From 7th Grade Science Fair to Master's Degree: Why STEM Still Matters in Northeast Arizona

On a chilly, snow-kissed morning at Pinetop Coffee House and Roasting Company, Birdman sits down with community powerhouse Mrs. Lynn Krigbaum to talk about one of the most inspiring grassroots events in the White Mountains — the Northeast Arizona Science Fair.   At 84 years young, with a master's degree in bacteriology and immunology sparked by her own 7th grade science fair project, Lynn embodies what this event represents: curiosity, discipline, and the long arc of learning. From trifold boards to state-level competition dreams, this regional gathering at Nicholas Homestead School in Show Low brings together over 100 student projects from across Apache and Navajo Counties — from Pinetop-Lakeside to Tuba City.   But this isn't just a judging event — it's a full-on STEM Fest. Judges trained with structured rubrics. Community booths. Hands-on exhibits. Public engagement from 2 to 4 PM. Scholarships and pathways to the state science fair in Phoenix.   Birdman explores how a simple science fair can shape futures, strengthen community ties, and remind us why investing in young minds still matters.   The following are the sponsors of Birdman Media Podcasts; please visit them and support them when you can, as they make this show possible. Premier Sponsors: Carin Rubin - State Farm Sitgreaves Community Development Corporation   Darbi's Cafe The House Restaurant Nexus Coalition for Drug Prevention Pinetop Coffee House and Roasting Company Pour Station - White Mountain Purified Water St. Anthony's School Adventure Pest and Wildlife WME Theaters