Register by March 20!
Companies across Oklahoma including, but not limited to engineering, architecture and construction firms, will come together this spring for a day of competition and community impact as Freese and Nichols hosts the STEM Sand Slam, a sand volleyball tournament benefiting the Oklahoma Engineering Foundation (OEF).
The tournament will take place Saturday, April 18, 2026, at BoomBox Beach Club in Oklahoma City. Teams from architecture, engineering and construction firms are invited to participate in the 4-on-4 coed sand volleyball tournament, which raises funds to support STEM education initiatives across the state.
Freese and Nichols organizes the annual event as a way to bring together Oklahoma’s engineering community while supporting programs that encourage students to explore careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Each year they select a different STEM mission/organization to support. This year, tournament proceeds will support the Oklahoma Engineering Foundation whose primary mission is to further STEM education in Oklahoma.Â
OEF Programs
Oklahoma Engineering Fair
The Oklahoma Engineering Fair, now in its 45th years, brings hundreds of middle and high school students to Oklahoma City each year to design, build and test engineering projects in nine different hands-on competitions. Teachers win cash awards for their classroom and students win Amazon gift cards.
MATHCOUNTS Oklahoma
OEF directs MATHCOUNTS Oklahoma, through three regional competitions (Edmond, Lawton and Tulsa) and a statewide championship (Oklahoma City). MATHCOUNTS challenges middle school students to develop strong mathematics and problem-solving skills while encouraging interest in engineering careers.
OEF Youth Ambassadors Board
The Youth Ambassadors Board provides Oklahoma high school students who are passionate about STEM with opportunities to gain leadership experience in nonprofit administration and advocacy.
College Engineering Scholarships
Each year, the Oklahoma Engineering Foundation awards scholarships to students pursuing engineering degrees, helping support the next generation of engineers.
Oklahoma Engineering Hall of Fame
The Oklahoma Engineering Hall of Fame will launch in Summer 2027. A project between OEF and the Oklahoma Society of Professional Engineers, it will honor engineers whose work has made lasting contributions to the state’s infrastructure, economy and communities. More details on this exciting program coming very soon!
Tournament Details
- Teams will compete in a 4v4 sand volleyball format with each team guaranteed at least four games, followed by afternoon bracket play.
- Maximum two teams per company
- Coed teams recommended, but not required
- First-come, first-served registration
- The registration deadline is March 20, and spots are limited.
Event Location
BoomBox Beach Club
2300 NE 63rd Street
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
To register a team or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit the STEM Sand Slam team registration page.
The STEM Sand Slam provides a unique opportunity for Oklahoma’s engineering community to come together for a fun and meaningful event while supporting programs that inspire the next generation of engineers.
For more information, contact Chase Hibbard at Freese and Nichols, chase.hibbard[at]freese[dot]com.
Founded in 1894, Freese and Nichols is a national engineering, planning and consulting firm with a long history of public service and community engagement. With offices across the United States, including Oklahoma City, the firm works with public and private clients on transportation, water, infrastructure and environmental projects that strengthen communities. Through initiatives like the STEM Sand Slam, Freese and Nichols demonstrates its commitment to supporting STEM education and helping inspire the next generation of engineers.