“You have to meet students where they are,” says Think Tank Science Program Director Christina Campbell.

That’s what Think Tank Science is doing–both geographically and figuratively.

Since March, 2024, their mobile STEAM lab has been visiting Southern California schools, with an emphasis on providing resources and mentorship to underserved communities.

Their mission: to bridge the gap and empower students with creative problem-solving skills and spark their imagination, preparing them to be the innovators of the future workforce.

They’re accomplishing these goals by involving the students in maker projects, which include basic woodworking, 3D printing, robotics and advanced design. School visits, after school programs and day camps are all among their services.

In addition, their curricula are not restricted to current K through 12 students.

Opportunities for all

“We reject the notion that learning is confined by age,” says Think Tank Science’s website.

Accordingly, they offer DIY courses to individuals of all ages–and all skill levels. (Check out their YouTube video on creating an LED lamp, one of their most popular projects, here.)

In addition, their services are not restricted by socioeconomic factors.

Christina says that the program is available for free to schools in underserved areas–and their biggest challenge is connecting with administrators to arrange a time when their lab can visit the school!

While Think Tank Science is a nonprofit, they also raise funds by offering paid services, including birthday parties and summer day camps. (Their 2025 summer day camp begins in July!) Here’s the link if you’d like to know more about booking them for a special event.)

Christina talked about her own educational journey which led to her expertise in development and designing curriculum, how Think Tank Science’s mobile lab began and where they’d like to expand in the future.

On this edition of Over Coffee ® we cover: 

• How Christina first discovered her passion for transformational change through education;

• A closer look at her own experiences, as a student, which gave her a new perspective on science;

• One of her most memorable experiences, while completing her Masters thesis in Uganda;

• How the Think Tank Science program began;

• What Christina remembers best, from the first time the STEAM lab rolled;

• What students will see, and experience, when Think Tank Science’s mobile STEAM lab arrives at their schools;

• One of the most popular items students get to make;

• How schools in underserved areas can have the mobile STEAM lab visit for free;

• How educators can find out more about these programs;

• A closer look at the upcoming summer day camps and STEAM classes;

• Some of the services Think Tank Science offers, to raise funds for their programs;

• One of Christina’s favorite stories, about a student who was empowered through their STEAM classes;

• Some of the DIY classes currently available for adults;

• Where Christina most wants to grow the program, in the next five years;

• How you can support them!