From Shore to Sea: Protect What You Love
Discover how science, technology, engineering and mathematics can help protect our environment and shape the future of our island communities.
Welcome Reception: November 10, 2026, by invitation only
Conference Sessions: November 11 and 12, 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.; November 13, 9:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Hosted by the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI), STEM Carib 2026 brings together students, educators, scientists, industry leaders and community members to explore how science, technology, engineering and mathematics can shape a sustainable future for the Cayman Islands and the wider Caribbean.
This legacy began in 2012, when UCCI hosted the Cayman Islands’ first-ever national STEM conference over three days. Founded by the late Dr. Bill Hrudey, who passed away in 2018, the inaugural conference explored topics ranging from strengthening STEM teaching in the classroom to interstellar travel with Dr. Ed Guinan, cloud computing with Microsoft’s George Goblin, alternative energy with Mike Cowdery, mosquito research with Angela Harris and food independence with Brian Crichlow. Keynote speaker Dr. Shirin Haque highlighted how science transforms societies, often against the odds, particularly in the Caribbean.
Following the eighth STEM Carib conference at UCCI in 2023, the 2026 event continues this tradition under the theme “From Shore to Sea: Protect What You Love.” Through interactive workshops, expert-led sessions and hands-on activities, participants will explore marine conservation, environmental sustainability, climate resilience and technology, discovering how STEM can protect our natural environment, address challenges facing island communities and inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders.
Dr. Tom Byrnes
Marine Scientist, Educator and Founder of Cayman Marine Lab
Dr. Tom Byrnes has spent more than five decades studying, exploring and teaching about the marine environment. An ITT Fulbright Fellow, he founded Cayman Marine Lab in the 1980s and has worked in the Cayman Islands for more than 40 years, introducing generations of students, teachers and divers to Cayman’s reefs.
His work spans coral ecology, Stingray City, invasive lionfish and marine conservation. He is also the author of Fifty Years at Sea – the ocean still has the last word, a memoir reflecting on his lifelong connection to the ocean.
Join us at the University College of the Cayman Islands, Olympic Way, Grand Cayman, for four days of STEM exploration and engagement.
An evening welcoming sponsors, stakeholders, educators, industry leaders, and invited guests to the opening of STEM Carib 2026.
School students will explore interactive workshops, expert-led sessions, and hands-on activities focused on STEM innovation, marine conservation, and sustainability.
Enjoy science fair presentations, robotics demonstrations, and the closing session, followed by a fun afternoon featuring liquid nitrogen, robotics, microscopy, games, drones, astronomy, popcorn, and more.
The fun afternoon runs from noon to 4:00 p.m., is open to all levels and requires no pre-booking.
The full programme, including session times, is available here.
STEM Carib 2026 is made possible through the support of organisations committed to STEM education, environmental sustainability, and opportunities for young people. We thank our sponsors and partners for helping bring meaningful learning experiences to students and the wider community.
Help inspire the next generation of scientists, innovators, and environmental leaders. Your support brings STEM learning to life through hands-on experiences that encourage young people to explore, discover, and protect our natural environment.
Sponsorship Deadline: October 23, 2026
Contact: stem@ucci.edu.ky
Session booking requirements will be shared when registration opens. Check the programme and registration instructions before selecting your sessions.
Schools interested in bringing a group should contact stem@ucci.edu.ky to discuss bookings, group sizes and supervision requirements.
Bring a notebook, pen and reusable water bottle. Check your selected session details for any additional requirements.
STEM Carib 2026 takes place November 11–13, 2026, at the University College of the Cayman Islands (UCCI) in Grand Cayman. Some sessions may be held online and will be clearly indicated on the registration form. A separate, invitation-only Welcome Reception will be held on November 10, from 6:00–7:30 p.m.
