Endress+Hauser recently inaugurated its Design and Innovation Studio — a center equipped with Industry 4.0 technology and STEM-learning opportunities for students in kindergarten through eighth grade, as well as applications for high school students.

In partnership with Purdue Indiana Next Generation Manufacturing Competitiveness Center (IN-MaC), the process automation manufacturer welcomed local educators, guidance counselors and teachers to the grand opening of its new center. The center offers 3D printing, robotics, Sphero robots, Little Bits building kits, engineering and science modules, and coding education. Teachers can reserve the space as an extension of their classroom activities as all curriculum is aligned with Indiana State Standards.

“After years of engagement and awareness through established activities with middle and high school students, this Design and Innovation Studio provides our organization the opportunity to create career and early STEM awareness for younger students,” says Nicole Otte, director of workforce development for Endress+Hauser. “It further expands our early talent initiatives. We really look forward to partnering with local educators to integrate this studio into their curriculum.”

Additional studio expands offerings  

In addition to opening the Design and Innovation Studio at the Endress+Hauser location, the two organizations were able to fund another Design and Innovation Studio at a different local location in Johnson County. The second location will serve Indian Creek Elementary, Intermediate and Junior High School.

“IN-MaC is thrilled to be partnering with Endress+Hauser to build awareness and increase access and equity in STEM educational pathways,” says 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 21st century, learn more about STEM careers, challenge their understanding of the industry, and leverage their interests to inspire participation and prepare youth for future jobs.”  

STEM LEAD program

Concurrently with the opening of the Design and Innovation Studio, Endress+Hauser also kicked off its Youth STEM LEAD program for high school students. This initiative allows high schoolers the opportunity to interact with and learn directly from Endress+Hauser subject matter experts. This program offers a free 90-minute session once a month for students to explore career opportunities within the STEM field. Each session will feature a new topic, some of which were specifically chosen ahead of time, while the remaining will be chosen by participants via an online survey to provide students the unique freedom to have control over their learning experience.