Governor's STEM Scholars Explore the Sweet Side of STEM at Mars Snacking

From chocolate making to packaging engineering, 20 Governor's STEM Scholars recently got a behind-the-scenes look at the science and innovation behind some of the world's most recognizable candy during a visit to Mars Snacking in Hackettstown, NJ.

The facility, where M&M'S are manufactured and research and development takes place on Mars chocolate products, provided Scholars with a unique opportunity to explore the wide range of STEM careers involved in bringing their favorite treats from concept to store shelves.

The Governor's STEM Scholars, a program of the Research & Development Council of New Jersey, connects high-achieving students with the state's STEM economy through conferences, research projects, and visits to leading STEM organizations.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Candy Production

During the October 28 visit, Scholars toured the manufacturing facility, where they witnessed the machinery and engineering processes involved in producing and packaging M&M'S on a massive scale.

From the machines that give M&M'S their colorful candy shells to the automated equipment used in packaging, Scholars saw firsthand how engineering and technology work together to manufacture a product enjoyed around the world.

For many, the scale and complexity of the operation came as a surprise. "Touring the plant and seeing all the industrial-sized machines pumping out thousands of M&Ms was incredible!" shared one Scholar. "The scale at which such factories operate is mind-boggling."

Getting Hands-On with the Science of Chocolate

The experience went well beyond the manufacturing floor. Scholars participated in interactive activities focused on product development, packaging science, cocoa science, and process engineering.

They explored the science behind chocolate, examined cacao pods, and learned how different processes influence the taste, texture, and appearance of candy. Hands-on experiences included chocolate tempering and exploring freeze-drying, giving Scholars an opportunity to see how scientific principles translate into product innovation.

The activities also introduced Scholars to the research and development process, highlighting how scientists and engineers experiment, solve problems, and develop new products.

One Scholar described the experience as feeling like they had entered "the Willy Wonka Chocolate factory," while others were fascinated by the opportunity to see how much science goes into something as familiar as a piece of candy.

Discovering Unexpected STEM Career Paths

Beyond the chocolate and candy, one of the most valuable aspects of the visit was the opportunity to learn about the people and careers behind the products.

Scholars met Mars Snacking professionals and discovered how food scientists, chemists, industrial engineers, packaging engineers, and researchers collaborate throughout the product development and manufacturing process.

For many Scholars, the visit introduced career possibilities they had never previously considered.

"From food science, engineering, package design, chemistry, and more, there are so many different careers to take passion for STEM to any area," shared one Scholar.

The impact was reflected in the post-visit survey:

• 92% of respondents rated the experience a perfect 5 out of 5.

• 85% said the visit significantly increased their understanding of STEM career opportunities in the food industry.

• 100% reported that the experience increased their interest in pursuing a STEM career in food science, manufacturing, or a related field, at least somewhat.
  

Several Scholars also highlighted how the experience opened their eyes to STEM career opportunities available in New Jersey.

"It also introduced me to fascinating jobs in New Jersey that I didn't even know we had!" one Scholar shared.

Connecting New Jersey's Future STEM Leaders with Industry

Experiences like the Mars Snacking visit are a cornerstone of the Governor's STEM Scholars program, providing students with opportunities to connect classroom learning to real-world applications while building awareness of the diverse STEM careers available throughout New Jersey.

By introducing Scholars to the science behind familiar products and the professionals who make innovation possible, these experiences help students envision how their own interests and talents could translate into future careers.

The Research & Development Council of New Jersey thanks the Mars Snacking team for welcoming the Scholars, sharing their expertise, and providing an engaging experience that demonstrated just how sweet a career in STEM can be.