Racing the Sun began with the hope of encouraging more youth to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) careers as they graduate and enter the workforce. Racing the Sun provides experiences students typically don't get in the classroom. Working with industry mentors and college students, participants are mentored by experts who provide guidance and demonstrate what employment in a STEM career looks like.

Through Racing the Sun, students utilize STEM concepts to develop critical thinking skills while solving real problems in mechanical, structural and electrical systems, physics, engineering, and alternative energy. Students also develop soft skills such as public speaking, teamwork and planning all crucial to the development of workplace-ready employees.