Students and educators at Washington Jr. High School will have access
to robots, 3D printers, coding, and engineering and science modules. The studios provide a
variety of opportunities for students and educators to discover new ways to explore design
thinking, problem-solving, technology, and creative skill sets. Developing and offering STEM
(Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) activities and curriculum for users to
cultivate the next generation of high-tech thinkers.
Through a partnership between Vincennes
University, Purdue Indiana Manufacturing
Competitiveness Center (IN-MaC), Toyota
Motor Manufacturing, and STEM Education
Works, the newly created Design and
Innovation Studio will provide a variety of
opportunities to discover new ways to explore
design-thinking, problem-solving, technology,
and creative skill sets.
“We are very excited to partner with Purdue IN-MaC, Vincennes University, Toyota Motor
Manufacturing, and STEM Education Works,” said Kevin Frank, Superintendent of Washington
Community Schools. “Because of its location at Washington Junior High School, the Design and
Innovation Studio has the potential to serve Washington Community Schools students in grades
5-12. The Design and Innovation Studio aligns to our district goals of providing students with
real-world learning through project-based learning. Students will grow the skills they need to be
successful in a wide range of college and career possibilities.”
“Our team at Purdue IN-MaC is excited to partner with Washington Community Schools to build
awareness and increase access and equity in STEM educational pathways,” said Sascha Harrell,
director of education and workforce for IN-MaC. “This collaboration is designed for students
and teachers to gain skills required to succeed in the innovation-focused twenty-first century,
learn more about industry careers, challenge their understanding of the industry, and leverage
their interests to inspire participation and prepare youth for future jobs.”
To learn more about IN-MaC’s Design and Innovation Studio, contact Sascha Harrell at
smharrel@purdue.edu.
