IEEE launches six-book engineering series for children

Key Takeaways

• IEEE + Lerner Publishing have launched six illustrated STEM books for kids 8‑12, titled Tomorrow’s Technology with TryEngineering, Powered by IEEE.
• Each volume pairs real‑world engineering case studies with hands‑on design challenges that develop problem‑solving confidence.
• The series aligns with the National Science Foundation’s finding that ≈ 25 % of U.S. jobs are now STEM‑related, making early exposure critical.
• Content draws on expertise from IEEE’s Communications, Computer, Oceanic Engineering Societies and the Transportation Electrification Council.
• All titles are supported by digital e‑books and video modules hosted on tryengineering.org, enabling blended classroom or at‑home learning.

Introduction: Why a New Kids’ Engineering Series?

For more than 20 years IEEE has championed STEM outreach, from scholarships to teacher‑training programs. Recognizing that STEM careers now represent nearly one‑quarter of the U.S. labor market (NSF, 2023), the institute partnered with Lerner Publishing Group to create a series that turns abstract engineering concepts into tangible experiences for elementary‑ and middle‑school learners.

Series Overview

Target Audience & Format

• Age range: 8 – 12 years (upper‑elementary & early middle school)
• Physical format: 8 × 10 in. softcover, 96 pages each
• Digital companion: downloadable PDF + short video lessons (3‑5 min each) on tryengineering.org

Core Design Philosophy

The Six Titles – What Kids Will Explore

Integration with IEEE’s Digital Ecosystem

All six books are cross‑referenced with IEEE’s open‑access e‑book library and the TryEngineering video series (over 150 + minutes of content). Teachers can assign the PDFs as pre‑read material, then launch the corresponding video module for a blended lesson that meets Common Core Math & Science standards.

Impact Metrics (Projected)

• Reach: 10,000+ school districts in the first year (based on Lerner’s distribution network).
• Engagement: Pilot tests reported a 35 % increase in students’ confidence to explain how a technology works after completing a design lab.
• Diversity: 40 % of featured engineers are women or from under‑represented groups, aligning with IEEE’s inclusion goals.

Bottom Line

IEEE’s Tomorrow’s Technology series translates cutting‑edge engineering into kid‑friendly narratives backed by hands‑on activities, digital resources, and authentic career role models. By embedding real‑world data (e.g., the 25 % STEM job share) and leveraging IEEE’s specialist societies, the collection offers a scalable pathway to nurture the next generation of engineers—starting at age eight. For educators and parents seeking a credible, standards‑aligned STEM toolkit, these books provide both inspiration and practical experience in a single, affordable package.