Search Results

Dive into scalable models and real-world success stories from our student STEM programs. Problem-Based Learning Publications GROWING AMERICA: TRANSDISCIPLINARY PROJECT-BASED LEARNING ACTIVITIES Work on Problems » Projects » Products: Designing Transdisciplinary Problem-Based Learning began over ten years ago, and has undergone a process of trial, experimentation, and on-going field-testing. It is a process-driven workbook, intended to provide hands-on templates for designing and implementing 21st century education. The step-by step process outlined is designed to help instructors and community partners build robust and sustainable environments that engage and excite the learning team of students and teachers. Read More FORENSICS IN THE CLASSROOM JOURNAL Field school journal to accompany Forensics in the Classroom Program. Read More PROBLEMS > PROJECTS > PRODUCTS: DESIGNING TRANSDISCIPLINARY PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING Work on Problems » Projects » Products: Designing Transdisciplinary Problem-Based Learning began over ten years ago, and has undergone a process of trial, experimentation, and on-going field-testing. It is a process-driven workbook, intended to provide hands-on templates for designing and implementing 21st century education. The step-by step process outlined is designed to help instructors and community partners build robust and sustainable environments that engage and excite the learning team of students and teachers. Read More FORENSICS IN THE CLASSROOM PROGRAM Originally a field study program created through many partnerships with experts in each field, this educational program walks students and teachers through the steps of forensic science including: investigating a crime scene, fingerprints, crime scene excavation, and blood spatter. Powerpoint slides are included with each subject, including a DNA slideshow. Read More CAVING: THE WEB OF LIFE The goal of Caving: The Web of Life is to utilize hands-on education and emphasize research outside of the classroom. Over the course of the two-year build-out of the program, students from across Ohio participated in perfecting the activities and outcomes by providing feedback. The activities can be modified to take place in any environment. Read More GARBOLOGY Garbology is a hands-on minds-on educational program that explores global issues of waste management involving students in understanding what we really waste today and what are some alternatives for managing waste, today and tomorrow. This program includes three presentations and a Garbage Sort Activity that are aligned with the Ohio Content Standards and Benchmarks. The presentations and interviews with Dr. William Rathje, founder of the Garbage Project, are a great way to get students engaged and involved. Read More

Javier Cruz-Ginez Multimedia Coordinator Javier is a filmmaker based in Columbus, Ohio, and the Multimedia Coordinator at The PAST Foundation. Also known as the Digital Auteur at The PAST Foundation, Javier uses his skills in digital media to share PAST mission and vision with the world. Javier enjoys watching films, music, and photography in his free time. Outside of PAST, Javier, with his friend's help, created “Demise Creative ” to foster creative collaboration and promote local artists of different forms, emphasizing social justice. Demise Creative is a creative collective that uses film to document and highlight artists creating a difference in the Columbus, Ohio community. Email: jcruz@pastfoundation.org | Website: https://jcgfilms.com/

Annalise Williams Administrative Assistant & HR Representative Annalise serves as the Administrative Assistant and HR Representative with the PAST Foundation. Her love for education and passion for people led her to join PAST in 2024. Annalise uses her skills in organization, efficiency, and communication to keep things running behind the scenes. She earned her degree in Theatre and Public Speaking Education in 2021 and has been working in different educational capacities ever since. She is very excited to be a part of the PAST team. When she’s not in the office, Annalise enjoys drinking coffee with friends, baking delicious treats, and curling up with a good book.

Discover the Ohio Scholastic Esports Collaborative, a statewide initiative fostering esports growth in Ohio. Join the Ohio Scholastic Esports Collaborative today! Ohio Scholastic Esports Collaborative Linking passion to purpose through competitive, career-connected play The Ohio Scholastic Esports Collaborative (OhioSEC) is a statewide initiative powered by a partnership between the PAST Foundation, Esports Ohio, the North America Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF), and the Samueli Foundation. Together, we’re helping schools across Ohio integrate scholastic Esports into classrooms, after-school programs, and career pathways. This work connects students’ passion for gaming to opportunities in technology, media, and entrepreneurship—building essential skills like communication, collaboration, and creative problem-solving along the way. Why Esports? Esports is more than play. It’s a platform. Esports clubs are inclusive by nature. Players, content creators, shoutcasters, graphic designers, coders, and marketers all play a vital role in shaping a team’s success. Together, they learn what it means to think strategically, act responsibly, and work as a team. Building community and a sense of belonging Developing leadership and career skills in real-world roles Encouraging collaboration across student interests and abilities Connecting games to future goals, including media, IT, marketing, and event production About Our Partners Esports Ohio Esports Ohio is a teacher-founded, free-to-join nonprofit that provides a competitive league and resources to help schools launch and manage Esports teams. Their mission is to empower students by providing educators with the support needed to build thriving Esports communities in schools. Learn more at www.esportsohio.org. North America Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF) NASEF is a nonprofit organization using Esports to help students develop skills for success in school and life. Their mission is to ensure all students—regardless of background—can access high-quality Esports programs grounded in learning, opportunity, diversity, and respect. Learn more at www.esportsfed.org. Start an Esports Club at Your School Access 9th Grade Curriculums Access 10th Grade Curriculums Access 11th Grade Curriculums Access 12th Grade Curriculums View the Esports Standards Note: Curriculum materials linked above are created and maintained by NASEF. PAST Foundation does not control this content. All rights reserved by NASEF. Esports in Action Lower Cost, Higher Value Students graduate high school with credentials and up to 14 college credits—reducing the total cost of a college degree. College-Ready and Career-Certified Students are certified for entry-level positions in medical laboratories, providing income and experience that enhance future opportunities. Equity-Focused Designed to be inclusive and accessible, the program supports students from all backgrounds in pursuing careers in healthcare. Innovation in Action The Microschool acts as a research and development model for new ways to teach, mentor, and prepare students for medical careers. Want to Learn More? The PAST Foundation is proud to support schools and partners interested in launching or expanding Esports programs. If your school is ready to take the next step, we’re here to help. Explore Student Experiences Contact Us

Explore PAST Foundation's Workforce Development programs offering partnership opportunities for students, educators, and community partners. Workforce Development Building the Workforce of Tomorrow PAST Foundation partners with industry, foundations, and community organizations to prepare students and educators for the future of work. Together, we are addressing workforce gaps, expanding opportunity, and building a more equitable pipeline into high-demand STEM careers. This work is not hypothetical. It is hands-on, credentialed, and already making a difference for thousands of learners across Ohio and beyond. Partnership Opportunities A Proven Approach with Tangible Impact Our Workforce Development programs are designed to align education with real-world outcomes. 500+ students earned 850+ industry-recognized credentials 375+ educators trained across 32 counties 125,000+ students impacted by PAST-trained teachers 500+ business and industry partners engaged These results are powered by strategic partnerships that open doors for learners while strengthening communities and industries. View Student Impact Stories Why Partnerships Matter The jobs of tomorrow require more than just technical skills—they demand new ways of thinking and new kinds of collaboration. Together with businesses, foundations, and community leaders, we co-create workforce programs that: Prepare students for in-demand careers Promote equity and access in STEM education Build local talent pipelines Equip educators to deliver real-world instruction Provide mentorship, coaching, and credential access Engage underserved communities in meaningful ways Our partners are not simply funding programs. They are co-designing solutions, mentoring students, and helping shape a stronger, more resilient workforce where every student has the chance to thrive. Explore Corporate Social Responsibility Partnership Opportunities 01 Host Internships, job shadowing, and site visits that give students a real-world view of your industry. 02 Mentor Support students through project-based learning, feedback, and coaching. 03 Invest Fund credential access, transportation, educator training, and equipment to scale impact. 04 Collaborate Work with us to develop a custom initiative aligned with your talent pipeline needs. Talk to Our Workforce Team “It was impressive to see that the interns learned real-world problem-solving skills using the DMAIC method and earned certifications as white and yellow belts. The skills they’re gaining — from 3D printing and CAD to AI support — align directly with what we use every day in our design work. Advancing these skills gives students a significant advantage.” — Industry Partner (2024) Join a growing network of organizations making a measurable difference in education, workforce readiness, and community impact. Become a Workforce Partner

Annalies Corbin, Ph.D. Founder & CEO Dr. Annalies Corbin is the Chief Goddess and CEO the PAST Foundation. In 2000, Dr. Corbin founded the PAST Foundation, an organization she envisioned could lead the way to connecting scientific research with classrooms, schools and communities. From 2000-2006, Annalies concurrently led the PAST Foundation and taught at East Carolina University’s Program in Maritime Studies. In 2005, when PAST opened its headquarters in Columbus, Annalies turned all efforts to building the PAST Foundation, assembling a team that could grow the reach and mission of linking learning to life . From a single school partnership in 2006, Annalies has grown PAST’s supporters across the nation, building a reputation for both transforming teaching and learning by understanding tomorrow’s education needs. In 2015, Annalies’ commitment to transforming schools led to the development of PAST Innovation Lab. Connecting directly with teachers through online professional development courses, MAEd program and on-site workshops, PAST Innovation Lab impacts more classrooms and expands learning opportunities for teachers and students everywhere. In 23 years, PAST has impacted more than 2,300,000 students, over 20,000 teachers across 42 states, hosting nearly 20,000 visitors and building hundreds of partnerships. In 2019, Annalies and PAST launched Learning Unboxed. This podcast series highlights industry experts and students talking about the changing needs in the world of teaching, learning and the future of work. Rather than trying to fix a system that is working exactly as it was designed, this series challenges listeners to join the conversation of how we “unbox” education and create innovative solutions to better meet workforce needs. Follow Annalies on social media to join the conversation. Learn more about Annalies Corbin. Annalies Corbin PAST Foundation President & CEO - Chief Goddess 1003 Kinnear Road, Columbus, OH 43212 Email: annalies@pastfoundation.org Twitter: @Annalies.Corbin LinkedIn: Annalies.Corbin #thisispast #learningunboxed

Refund Policy PAST Foundation Refund Policy After making payment for your PAST Summer Experience, if you decide to cancel for any reason, we will refund your payment in accordance with the following schedule and conditions. By providing payment to us, you acknowledge and agree to these terms. For cancellation requests received prior to March 31, 2026, we will refund 90% of your payment. For cancellation requests received between April 1, 2026 and May 15, 2026, we will refund 50% of your payment. After May 15, 2026, no refunds will be given. How to Request a Cancellation within the Timeline Above: You may email us your refund request at programs@pastfoundation.org and our response within 48 hours will be confirmation of receipt of your email. (If you do not hear from us, then we have not received your request). All requests must be in writing via email (not by phone or by informing a PAST staff member). Refunds will not be given: If a child is asked to leave the program due to behavioral issues, including a child not following rules or instructions from PAST staff. If a child missed a day or more of camp, or dropped out of camp early. If a family decides they no longer wish to participate in the program for any reason. Extraordinary Circumstance: Exception to the above policy: Refunds may be considered in cases where a registrant is unable to attend the event or program due to a family emergency or other extraordinary circumstance. In such situations, please contact PAST by email to share the details of your situation. PAST management will review and respond via email. If you have any questions contact us via email at purchasing@pastfoundation.org .

Advanced CTE and Credentials Matter for Fab Fundamentals The competencies and skills in the Embedded Systems and SMART Design course are strongly aligned with the frameworks and principles of Advanced CTE and Credentials Matter, particularly in areas related to digital technology, electronics, and engineering within Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways. careertech.org These competencies, performance indicators, and skills are a strong match for the expectations and standards established by Advanced CTE for high-quality Career Technical Education programs in electronics and engineering. Advanced CTE Career Cluster Alignment PCB Design & Fabrication, Embedded Systems Programming, and Input/Output Device Integration directly correspond to skill sets listed within the Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) and Digital Technology Career Clusters in the Advanced CTE National Career Clusters Framework. careertech.org . Workflow Analysis & Troubleshooting and Circuit Debugging and Optimization reflect best practices for problem solving, critical thinking, and technical skill proficiency required for CTE students in engineering and electronics pathways. careertech.org Technical Documentation & Reflection aligns with Advanced CTE’s emphasis on effective communication, information management, and continual learning—core elements for career-ready preparation. careertech.org Performance Indicators within Advanced CTE Creating and fabricating a functional PCB with CAM workflows is showcased in Advanced CTE standards as an applied competency for high school and postsecondary students pursuing electronics, robotics, and engineering pathways. education.ohio.gov Embedded programming and sensor/actuator integration support Advanced CTE’s focus on hands-on, industry-driven learning experiences in automation, mechatronics, and advanced manufacturing. careertech.org Generating design documentation is a recognized best practice and required skill in the curriculum frameworks and technical standards for electronics and engineering career clusters. education.ohio.gov Skills Learned and Advanced CTE Objectives Electrical CAD, PCB Design, 3D modeling, and documentation are key proficiencies expected within Advanced CTE pathways, supporting rigorous technical standards and project-based learning. education.ohio.gov Microcontroller integration, programming, debugging, protocol literacy, and troubleshooting are fundamental components cited in Advanced CTE frameworks as essential outcomes for students prepared for industry credentials and employment. careertech.org Data sheet literacy, programming environments (e.g., Arduino IDE, MicroPython), and applied system testing are emphasized as part of the real-world technical skills in CTE engineering and electronics pathways. careertech.org These program features ensure students master the technical, problem-solving, and documentation skills required by Advanced CTE for electronics and digital technology fields, preparing learners for both postsecondary studies and in-demand STEM careers. careertech.org Credentials Matter These features reflect the priorities of Credentials Matter: using high-quality, performance-based education to help students attain credentials that are relevant, employer-recognized, and pivotal for entry into and advancement within lab electronics, automation, and digital manufacturing careers. In summary, the described curriculum and skills closely match the goals and frameworks of Advanced CTE and Credentials Matter by supporting career-ready practices, technical proficiency, and credential attainment for high-demand roles in modern electronics, automation, and manufacturing environments Credentials Matter Alignment PCB Design & Fabrication and Embedded Systems Programming position learners to earn credentials like IPC Electronics Assembly, Electronics Technician, Robotics Technician, and other certificates listed as in-demand for electronics careers, reflecting Credentials Matter’s goal of matching education with workforce needs. ( learnworkecosystemlibrary ) Input/Output Device Integration, Workflow Analysis & Troubleshooting, and Circuit Debugging prepare students for real-world certifications in manufacturing and automation—where hands-on troubleshooting and integration skills are required by employers in high-skill sectors. ( credentialsmatter.org ) Technical Documentation & Reflection ensures students can meet documentation and communication standards necessary for many manufacturing credentials and are able to demonstrate comprehensive understanding and quality assurance in their work. ( excelined.org ) Performance Indicators within Credentials Matter Creating and fabricating functional PCBs and implementing embedded programming map directly to performance-based credentials valued in national datasets and by major manufacturers, identified as aligning with actual job profiles. ( credentialsmatter.org ) Integration of sensors, actuators, and digital documentation references the employer-valued skill clusters tracked by Credentials Matter to measure credential supply against workforce demand. learnworkecosystemlibrary Skills Learned and Credential Attainment Electrical CAD, EDA, PCB design, and system integration prepare students for certifications such as IPC and NIMS—credentials tracked by Credentials Matter and recognized by employers for hiring and promotion decisions. ( electronics.org ) Microcontroller programming, debugging, and protocol skills target the competencies required for industry credentials specifically cited in manufacturing and electronics career clusters. ( excelined.org ) Data sheet literacy, programming environment proficiency (Arduino IDE, MicroPython, etc.), and formal documentation skills support employability outcomes and credential attainment, closing the gap between high school preparation and real-world technician and engineering roles. ( learnworkecosystemlibrary )

Explore STEM Activities at Home for hands-on learning! Discover student favorites and connect with us to solve real-world challenges today! STEM Activities at Home STEM Learning Anytime, For Anyone Looking for fun and accessible ways to bring STEM into your home, classroom, or community program? Our free collection of hands-on activities invites learners of all ages to solve real-world challenges through design thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. View All Activities What’s Included Downloadable Challenge Sheets for K–12 students No-cost materials and minimal prep required Topics range from engineering and biology to climate science and design Tied to real-world scenarios that spark imagination Some Student Favorites Blooming Flower Create a paper flower with special geometry that will allow for it to open with contact to water. Download Challenge Sheet Gliders Not all aircraft use propulsion to achieve sustained flight. Gliders rely on design and weather to achieve lasting flight. Build your own glider. Download Challenge Sheet Kaleidoscopes Did you know that the word kaleidoscope comes from Greek words meaning {beautiful form to see?} How will you create your kaleidoscope to create color reflections? Download Challenge Sheet Rain Cloud Exploration Spring is here and that means rain! Rain falls from the clouds, but how and why does this happen? Explore clouds and rain! Download Challenge Sheet See it in Action Blooming Flowers Design Challenge STEM Design Challenge and Activity that invites learners to explore how water and life work together through capillary action, and to question where they see this happening every day. See it in Action Glider Design Challenge This design challenge explores the principles of flight, and provides a nice introduction to design thinking and the design cycle. The experiment covers mechanics, aerodynamics, physics, and simple calculus. See it in Action Stained Glass Design Challenge Create a stained glass panel that is both interesting and and structurally sound and tells a story without using words. See it in Action Kaleidoscope Mini Challenge Kaleidoscope is Greek for "beautiful form to see". In this Mini Challenge we show you how to play with light and shape using simple tools and methods. This challenge is appropriate for younger and older kids. See it in Action Bottle Flower Mini Challenge Applied STEM with simple plastic bottles, markers, scissors, pipe cleaners or string, and your own imagination! Make a bottle flower today! All Activities Alien Organism You must design an organism that can live in a harsh Mars environment. Download Challenge Sheet Beam/Bird Feeder You must design a bird feeder for your backyard and you must design a beam to hold it away from your house where you will mount it. Download Challenge Sheet Blooming Flower Create a paper flower with special geometry that will allow for it to open with contact to water. Download Challenge Sheet Board Games You must package three marbles into each game from a large box of about 100 marbles, a mechanism designed to separate those marbles into groups of three and a container to hold the marbles within the board game box. Download Challenge Sheet Build a Bridge This Design Challenge asks that you build a bridge using the least amount of materials to hold the maximum amount of weight. Download Challenge Sheet Build a Bug This activity allows you to build a crawling or flying insect from a simple plastic bottle. Download Challenge Sheet Build a Flower This activity allows you to build a single flower or a ring of flowers from a simple plastic bottle. Download Challenge Sheet Catapult Design This Design Challenge allows you to create a table top or ground based catapult from simple materials. Download Challenge Sheet Climate Change The city is concerned that global warming can lead to more precipitation and wonder what the ramifications could be and how to prepare. They hire you, an environmental scientist working as a consultant, to predict damages to the cities’ infrastructure and safety. Download Challenge Sheet Create a Zoo Art This simple and fun activity allows kids to create a zoo from paper cut outs. Make it fun by asking kids to guess at foods, habitats and dangers in their environment. Download Challenge Sheet Energy Efficient Homes American Electric Power Company and Columbia Gas of Ohio have requested a design for an eco-friendly house that uses multiple sources of renewable energy. Download Challenge Sheet Erosion You will be investigating the effect erosion can have on South Dakota to mitigate the dangers and problems it may cause. Download Challenge Sheet Evolution of Tech You are a researcher on a quest to find the most impactful invention from the Industrial Revolution Era and then to transform it into a futuristic wonder. Choose one invention of technology you could not do without from the era. Download Challenge Sheet Extreme Weather Vehicles The challenge for you is to design a vehicle that will provide protection AND relay important information about the weather. Download Challenge Sheet Germs and Soap You must create a tool to demonstrate why soap and water are such a powerful weapon against this deadly COVID19 pandemic. Download Challenge Sheet Gliders Not all aircraft use propulsion to achieve sustained flight. Gliders rely on design and weather to achieve lasting flight. Build your own glider. Download Challenge Sheet Golf Business Improvement Attendance has been down at a local golf club due to inability to play during inclement weather or pandemic. Time commitment is also a hindrance. Your firm has been tasked with developing a business plan to increase attendance. Download Challenge Sheet Kaleidoscopes Did you know that the word kaleidoscope comes from Greek words meaning {beautiful form to see?} How will you create your kaleidoscope to create color reflections? Download Challenge Sheet Lasagna Garden An introduction to compost and composting places. Learners will build a garden bed or a container garden capable of sustaining and growing life. Download Challenge Sheet Moldy Bread Infection Infection rates for bacterial and viral illnesses need to be measured and documented. The location of bacteria in your home needs to be measured and located. Download Challenge Sheet Neutral Buoyancy BOEM is interested in further developing their underwater monitoring program and they need your help designing the optimal ROV (remote operating vehicle) to collect vital environmental data at specific ocean depths. Download Challenge Sheet Paper Airplanes A small Alaskan town has mail and groceries delivered weekly by small planes. Depending on the wind speed and direction there are two different ways the airplanes approach the small airstrip and land. One approach is straight and simple. The other requires the pilot to turn 90 degrees during approach then land quickly. Download Challenge Sheet Pyramid Cup Scientists often need to move things that cannot be touched (think boiling water, radioactive material, or deadly viruses.) Download Challenge Sheet Rain Cloud Exploration Spring is here and that means rain! Rain falls from the clouds, but how and why does this happen? Explore clouds and rain! Download Challenge Sheet Recycled Art You must carefully choose your parts. Take notes on what you choose and record the disassembly of every item, in case you have to reassemble it. Your only tools are outlined below. Be creative, be clever and good luck! Download Challenge Sheet Sail Cars Make a working, rolling car powered by the wind. Download Challenge Sheet Seed Bombs The gardener has seeds that need to be preserved in a SEED Bomb. The bomb needs to maintain the virility of the seed while being stored to be used at a future time. The seeds must be able to be stored in room temperature surroundings without germinating. Download Challenge Sheet Spaghetti Bridge Alaska Department of Transportation intends to build new bridges in several locations in the next few years and they need your help to design bridges that are aesthetically interesting, safe and functional. The span of the bridges will variety by location. Download Challenge Sheet Stained Glass Create a stained glass panel that is both interesting and structurally sound and tells a story without using words. Download Challenge Sheet Stomp Rockets Create a rocket from a 2 liter bottle, some simple connections and duct tape. Challenge yourself to launch the rocket as high and far as you can. Download Challenge Sheet Surviving the Wild A tour company has contracted with you to develop travel brochures for clients interested in going on extreme adventure trips through the world. The clientele usually knows very little about the biome they are about to visit. They will be dropped off via helicopter with only a small backpack filled with supplies. Download Challenge Sheet The Design Cycle All activities are built using PAST’s Design Cycle model. This cycle encourages iterative learning and helps students take ownership of the process. Powered by Partnerships These STEM Activities are made possible thanks to generous support from our community and industry partners. Connect with Us If you need help with implementing and using these Design Challenges or moving your content digitally — we are still here! We are happy to help! Donate to PAST Foundation Become a Partner

Partner with PAST to support impactful learning. Discover ways to collaborate and hear what our partners are saying. Partner with PAST today! Partner with PAST Linking Learning to Life—Together At PAST, we believe learning is most powerful when it connects to the real world. That connection is only possible because of partners who share our vision. From business and industry leaders to foundations and community organizations, our partners help us make learning more relevant, accessible, and impactful for students everywhere. Why Partner with PAST? We work at the intersection of education, business, and community. Our mission to design and deliver experiences that link learning to life thrives when shared with others who believe in innovation, equity, and long-term impact. Whether you’re a corporate leader, foundation, entrepreneur, or community advocate, your partnership supports systems that prepare students for the future and strengthen communities today. Ways to Support Our Work There’s more than one way to make an impact. We welcome a wide range of involvement, depending on your goals, capacity, and vision. Financial Contributions In-Kind Donations Volunteering Time & Expertise Strategic Partnerships We’re always open to new ideas and creative approaches. Let’s talk about how we can work together. Work With Us Donate to PAST Working with PAST has been one of the most rewarding partnerships we’ve ever had. Their ability to bring innovation and purpose to education is unmatched.” — Corporate Partner, STEM Industry Leader What Our Partners Are Saying The PAST Foundation helped us connect our mission with meaningful educational outcomes. We weren’t just writing a check — we were investing in real-world change.” — Foundation Program Officer What Our Partners Are Saying I’ve never seen students more engaged. PAST’s approach to learning is exactly what our future workforce needs.” — Local Business Leader What Our Partners Are Saying Our Sponsors & Donors We are grateful for the generous support of our current partners and sponsors. Want to connect your mission to something bigger? Let’s explore how we can align your values with tangible outcomes in education, equity, and workforce readiness. Join Our Sponsor Network

Discover the PAST Innovation Fab Lab, a makerspace where big ideas become reality. Meet our instructors and explore endless possibilities. Fabrication & Systems Credentialing Pathway Explore Pathways What Is the Fab Lab? The PAST Innovation Fab Lab is a fully equipped, MIT-aligned fabrication lab and makerspace designed to turn big ideas into tangible realities. As a certified MIT Fab Academy Node , we offer one of the few opportunities in the U.S. to earn global credentials through the Fab Academy course. From students and educators to entrepreneurs and artists, our lab is a place where learning, design, and innovation converge. Choose Your Pathway Fabrication & Design Fundamentals Anticipated Time to Credential: 60 hours | Cost Estimate: $875 This entry-level credential introduces learners to the core tools and mindsets of digital fabrication. Students gain foundational skills in 2D/3D design, 3D printing, and scanning, while building project management and documentation habits essential for industry readiness. Explore Embedded Electronics & SMART Design Anticipated Time to Credential: 60 hours | Cost Estimate: $875 Building on foundational skills, this credential introduces learners to intelligent systems. Students design, fabricate, and program their own electronic devices while documenting workflows and debugging challenges in real-time. Explore Advanced Fabrication & Systems Integration Anticipated Time to Credential: 60 hours | Cost Estimate: $875 This capstone credential challenges students to design and build advanced, networked, and mechanical systems that showcase the integration of multiple digital fabrication competencies. It emphasizes teamwork, iterative design, and full-system integration. Explore What Makes Us Unique? MIT Fab Academy Node We are one of the only U.S. hosts of the world-renowned Fab Academy program—an intensive, project-based course in digital fabrication led by Neil Gershenfeld and the MIT Center for Bits and Atoms. Full-Spectrum Fab + Maker Tools Our lab meets MIT’s global standards and includes professional-grade fabrication equipment for digital and industrial prototyping. We support everything from student research to commercial product development. Open to the Community We collaborate with schools, creatives, nonprofits, and businesses to support innovation across Central Ohio. If you’ve got a bold idea, we’ve got the tools to help you make it. Training & Credentialing We offer teacher training and Industry-Recognized Credentials (IRCs) aligned to fabrication and advanced manufacturing careers. What’s Inside the Lab Advanced Fabrication Zone Ideal for large-scale or high-power work CNC Router Industrial Woodworking Tools Plasma Cutter Laser Cutter Full-Spectrum Fab + Maker Tools Designed for detail-oriented, small-scale projects 3D Printers (FDM & Resin) Vinyl Cutter Embroidery Machine Direct-to-Garment Printer Fab Academy: Earn a Global Credential The Fab Academy is a 5-month course in digital fabrication that blends hands-on skill-building with global mentorship. Students master skills in: 2D/3D design Electronics Programming CNC machining Project development Interested in enrolling or partnering with us to bring Fab Academy access to your school or community? Learn More Interested in Partnering or Visiting? Our lab is a place for experimentation, learning, and invention, where users can play, create, mentor, and innovate. Whether you're working on a personal project, a startup idea, or an educational assignment, our Fab Lab provides the tools and support to make almost anything imaginable. For more information on accessing our Fab Lab, participating in workshops, or reserving equipment, please reach out! Contact Us Powered by Our Partners

Advanced Fabrication and Systems Integration Anticipated Time to Credential: 60 hours | Cost Estimate: $875 (**Additional costs associated with this course are the responsibility of the student or school district. Costs are related to materials needed to complete weekly and the capstone projects. Weekly projects cost ~$50/weekly project and ~$200 for capstone project.) This capstone credential challenges students to design and construct advanced, networked, and mechanical systems that demonstrate the integration of multiple digital fabrication competencies. It emphasizes teamwork, iterative design, and comprehensive system integration. Upon successful completion and passing of this course, you will be eligible for the Advanced Fabrication and Systems Integration Credential offered by The PAST Foundation’s Innovation FabLab. This credential is endorsed by esteemed industry partners, including The Honda Corporation, Honeywell, SenseIC, and The Fab Foundation. If you are a teacher who has already completed this credential and have access to the necessary equipment you are eligible to have students participate in this credential course. Please contact the PAST Foundation Fab Lab at fablab@pastfoundation.org . Sign Up All Credential Pathway Course Overview This capstone credential challenges students to design and construct advanced, networked, and mechanical systems that demonstrate the integration of multiple digital fabrication competencies. It emphasizes teamwork, iterative design, and comprehensive system integration. Upon successful completion and passing of this course, you will be eligible for the Advanced Fabrication and Systems Integration Credential offered by The PAST Foundation’s Innovation FabLab. This credential is endorsed by esteemed industry partners, including The Honda Corporation, Honeywell, SenseIC, and The Fab Foundation. If you are a teacher who has already completed this credential and have access to the necessary equipment you are eligible to have students participate in this credential course. Please contact the PAST Foundation Fab Lab at fablab@pastfoundation.org . What You'll Explore Performance Indicators Fabricated Components and Systems: Design, program, and network fabricated components and systems. Develop a functional mechanical machine. Integrated and Smart Systems: Implement digital fabrication workflows to create integrated, intelligent systems. Oversee project management and maintain comprehensive digital project documentation. System Integration and End-User Functionality: Demonstrate system integration and end-user functionality through a final capstone project. Key Competencies Mechanical Machine Design Networking & Communication Protocols System Integration (Digital + Physical + Code) Production and use of block/system diagrams and wiring schematics. Embedding and synchronizing code for coordinated operation of subsystems. Physical integration of components: mounting, alignment, cabling, and enclosure design. Developing and running integration and quality assurance (QA/QC) tests for full-system verification. Capstone Project Execution and Documentation Industry Portfolio Development Skills You'll Learn Hardware/Software Interfacing Students will acquire knowledge of Network Design Workflows, encompassing the planning and implementation of workflows for connecting electronic devices, both wired and wireless. Students will acquire knowledge in Protocol Implementation and Interpretation. They will gain practical experience in implementing, testing, and interpreting various networking and communication protocols, including I2C, SPI, UART, and custom protocols, to enable devices to exchange data. Students will acquire knowledge in Node Design and Addressing. This involves designing, constructing, and connecting nodes (devices) that can communicate effectively within a network. Additionally, students will learn how to assign addresses and ensure the smooth flow of data. Troubleshooting and Documentation: They document their processes and troubleshoot issues, learning to analyze data transmission and resolve communication errors Mechanical machine design (structure, movement, function) Students will design, plan, and build mechanical systems, integrating mechanisms, actuation (motors, servos), and automation (control systems). Students will apply technical problem-solving skills through iterative prototyping and testing. They will analyze technical challenges, develop solutions, and refine designs based on test results and feedback. Students will apply Continuous Improvement principles, learning to identify and implement design enhancements that optimize functionality, manufacturability, and user experience. Students will acquire Project Management skills through group assignments, which will enable them to effectively divide tasks, estimate time, and monitor project progress. System integration Students will create and document detailed system diagrams showing connections between electronics, mechanics, and software components Students will apply project management skills, including time planning, supply management, and documentation of integration and testing processes. Students will have awareness of lifecycle issues—maintenance, repair, upgradability, and end-of-life considerations for the system as a whole. Other Skills Demonstrated Through Completion of Capstone Project System integration and prototyping Custom tool/path creation for specialized production Digital Fabrication Integrated Product Design: Students create unique products that combine multiple digital fabrication processes, such as 2D and 3D modeling, laser cutting, CNC milling, and 3D printing. 2D & 3D Modeling: Competency in computer-aided design (CAD) tools for both 2D and 3D modeling is developed, with these skills directly applied to project work. Process Selection and Application: Students learn to select and apply the most appropriate additive (e.g., 3D printing) and subtractive (e.g., CNC milling, laser cutting) fabrication processes for their designs. Comprehensive Documentation: A crucial skill is documenting every step of the design and fabrication process, including successes, failures, and solutions. This not only demonstrates competency but also supports reproducibility and knowledge sharing Data analysis Innovation and iteration in physical and digital systems Technical leadership and decision-making Design-for-manufacturing mindset Process improvement skills Industry Jobs You Can Obtain With This Credential Alignment with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model The skills and competencies found in the Advanced Fabrication and Systems Integration course are highly aligned with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model, which emphasizes mechanical machine design, digital fabrication, networking and communication protocols, integration of hardware/software, project management, documentation, and continuous improvement as critical success areas for manufacturing careers in Ohio. Learn More Alignment to Advanced CTE and Credentials Matter The competencies, performance indicators, and skills found in the Advanced Fabrication and Systems Integration course closely align with the principles and structures of Advanced CTE, especially within the STEM, Engineering & Technology, and Manufacturing Career Clusters. Learn More