Since 1955, the GREATER SAN DIEGO SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FAIR (GSDSEF) has provided an inspiring experience in science and engineering for tens of thousands of San Diego and Imperial County students, promoting STEM literacy for all, and motivating many to pursue careers in STEM fields. This regional competition, affiliated with state and international STEM fairs, challenges students to go beyond classroom studies to do independent research – to ask compelling questions, to design and implement innovative solutions, and to present and defend results to judges who are professionals in their fields. GSDSEF, Inc. is a registered charity, a 501(c)(3,) non-profit organization, all volunteer, and independently sponsored by local STEM industry, which counts many GSDSEF alumni among its ranks.