Philadelphia Eagles, Braskem, and Science of Sport Team Up to Host Immersive STEM Field Day for Local Students
the Philadelphia Eagles, in collaboration with Braskem—the largest producer of polyolefins in the Americas—and Science of Sport, welcomed 125 students from the Greater Philadelphia Area to Lincoln Financial Field for an unforgettable STEM Field Day. The initiative, part of the ongoing “Tackling STEM” program, delivered an innovative and engaging experience that blended sports, science, and sustainability to spark curiosity and learning in young minds.
The day-long event transformed the Eagles’ home stadium into a living classroom where students explored the intersections of football, physics, material science, and environmental responsibility. The collaborative effort aimed not only to provide hands-on educational opportunities but also to inspire future leaders in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields by making these disciplines more tangible and relatable.
A Unique Learning Experience in a Legendary Setting
Set against the backdrop of one of the NFL’s most iconic stadiums, the field day was carefully designed to create an environment where education and excitement go hand in hand. Students participated in five interactive learning stations, each offering a unique blend of science and sport. From calculating the trajectory of a football to exploring the chemistry behind plastic recycling, the activities showcased how STEM principles are deeply embedded in everyday experiences—even in professional sports.
“We’re proud to team up with Braskem once again to elevate our shared commitment to sustainability and community development,” said Brian Napoli, Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships at the Philadelphia Eagles. “Sustainability is a pillar of the Eagles’ organizational identity, and Braskem plays a key role in the team’s environmental impact efforts. We’re thrilled to leverage our partnership and invest in our planet by hosting the next generation of STEM leaders for a fun, educational field day.”
Each station was designed not only to educate, but also to encourage students to think critically about issues such as environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and the lifecycle of materials. Topics included the importance of recycling, how stadiums can operate more sustainably, and how plastics—when managed responsibly—can be part of a circular economy.
Building a Pipeline of Future Innovators
Braskem, a global leader in sustainable chemical solutions and the world’s first industrial-scale producer of biopolymers, took an active role in the event. The company’s team members volunteered their time to mentor students throughout the day, guiding them through each station and sharing their real-world professional experiences. The hands-on nature of the event, paired with direct interactions with STEM professionals, made the learning both practical and inspiring.
“We were excited to host this event at Lincoln Financial Field along with our partner, the Philadelphia Eagles,” said Kelly Elizardo, North America External Affairs and Sustainability Director at Braskem. “Braskem is committed to our local communities and providing opportunities to bring STEM experiences to our future leaders.”
Through its strong commitment to community development, Braskem continues to invest in initiatives that create lasting value and promote equity in education. By opening doors to STEM careers and demystifying complex scientific concepts, the company aims to empower young learners—particularly those from underserved communities—to see themselves as capable and competent contributors to the future of science and technology.
The Power of Sports to Inspire STEM Learning
The event was part of the larger “Tackling STEM” program, an initiative powered by the nonprofit Science of Sport. The program uses the universal appeal of sports to teach foundational STEM concepts in an accessible and exciting way. By integrating the curriculum with real-world examples from football and other sports, Science of Sport bridges the gap between classroom learning and everyday experiences.
“Science of Sport is honored to partner with the Philadelphia Eagles and Braskem to deliver a unique, hands-on learning experience through the Tackling STEM program,” said Daren Heaton, Executive Director of Science of Sport. “By bringing students into an environment as inspiring as Lincoln Financial Field, we’re not just teaching science, math, and sustainability—we’re creating unforgettable moments that empower young minds to envision themselves as future innovators and problem-solvers using the sport they love.”
From equations that explain the arc of a pass to the physics behind tackling and motion, sports offer a powerful and relatable lens through which to understand complex STEM ideas. This educational model has proven especially effective at engaging students who may not otherwise see themselves as “science-minded,” particularly when delivered in a hands-on, experiential format.
A Lasting Impact Across the Region
The partnership between the Philadelphia Eagles and Braskem began in 2018, with a shared vision to combine STEM education and sustainability outreach. Since its inception, the initiative has reached approximately 24,000 elementary and middle school students throughout the Greater Philadelphia Area. With each new event, the program continues to build momentum, reaching more students, schools, and communities.
The STEM Field Day at Lincoln Financial Field is just one chapter in this growing story, but its impact will resonate long after the final station is completed. For many students, the opportunity to learn in a world-class stadium, guided by professionals who work at the intersection of science, sustainability, and sport, may be a pivotal moment that shapes their educational and career aspirations.
In a region rich with educational institutions, tech industries, and sports culture, the event highlights how cross-sector collaboration can enhance student outcomes and promote inclusive, future-forward education. It also reinforces the broader role that companies like Braskem and teams like the Eagles can play in driving social progress beyond their traditional spheres.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, where scientific literacy and sustainability are more critical than ever, initiatives like the STEM Field Day serve a dual purpose: equipping students with essential knowledge and instilling a sense of responsibility for the world around them. By empowering the next generation to think critically, innovate boldly, and act sustainably, these organizations are investing in a better future for all.
As climate change, energy consumption, and material waste become increasingly pressing challenges, the integration of sustainability and education will play a crucial role in shaping tomorrow’s solutions. Through events like this one, Braskem, the Philadelphia Eagles, and Science of Sport are laying the groundwork for a new generation of STEM-savvy changemakers who can rise to meet these challenges head-on.
For the students who attended, the lessons went far beyond the classroom. They saw firsthand how science and sports are not separate worlds but interconnected disciplines. They learned that being curious, asking questions, and exploring new ideas can be not only fun—but also life-changing.
And perhaps most importantly, they discovered that with the right guidance and opportunities, they, too, can be the innovators, engineers, and environmental stewards of the future.
