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PAST Foundation is a nonprofit hub for educational innovation. Discover how we connects students, educators, and partners to the future of education. We connect students, educators, and partners to the future of education through innovation, research, and hands-on programs. What We Do 01 Student Programs Hands-on, future-focused experiences that connect students to STEM careers, real-world problem-solving, and their own potential. Explore 02 Professional Learning Customized professional development and coaching for educators, administrators, and district leaders to reimagine teaching and learning. Explore 03 Research & Evaluation Applied research and program evaluation rooted in data, design thinking, and human-centered learning. Explore 04 Workforce Development We connect industry to K-12 for student career awareness and employee engagement opportunities. Explore Real-World Impact in Numbers Our Reach From classrooms to communities, our work impacts learners of all ages. PAST connects students, educators, and partners with hands-on experiences that spark curiosity, build skills, and drive meaningful change. See Our Impact in Action 3.2+ million students impacted 24,000+ educators engaged 500+ industry and community partners 1,000+ districts influenced 596 programs at 120+ locations ÁjgqÎ|QWERTYqwerty PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ PAST Foundation ✦ We’re reimagining what learning looks like. PAST Foundation is a nonprofit hub for educational innovation. We partner with schools, communities, and industries to design and deliver programs that prepare learners of all ages for the future of work. Through research, professional development, student experiences, and system-level consulting, we help make learning meaningful, measurable, and lasting. Learn More What People Are Saying Across the country, educators, students, and partners are seeing the difference real-world learning can make. Here’s what a few of them had to say about working with the PAST Foundation: The work that PAST Foundation does in the field of innovative education is truly remarkable. Upon first visiting PAST, we were immediately energized by seeing the facility, meeting the staff and the students.” — John White, Principal of Deloitte Consulting LLP What People Are Saying Across the country, educators, students, and partners are seeing the difference real-world learning can make. Here’s what a few of them had to say about working with the PAST Foundation: We are so fortunate to have a partner like the PAST Foundation who understands as we do the importance of hands-on, real-world, problem-based learning.” — Steve Foreman, MEd, Assistant Superintendent, Zanesville City Schools. What People Are Saying Across the country, educators, students, and partners are seeing the difference real-world learning can make. Here’s what a few of them had to say about working with the PAST Foundation: Everything has been great. Your staff is amazing. The classes are well organized and the right level of difficulty without being too overwhelming” — Summer STEM Experience 2025 Parent Join Us at an Upcoming Event From hands-on student camps to educator workshops, we’re bringing real-world learning to life all year long. Wed, May 13 From Vision to Evidence: A Deep Dive into Ohio’s STEM/STEAM Designation Rubric and Ohio Quality Model / A 3-Part Webinar Series Details May 13, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM A 3-Part Webinar Series Join the PAST Foundation, the Central Ohio STEM Hub for the Ohio STEM Learning Network, as we embark on a three part webinar series to dive deeper into understanding the Ohio’s STEM/STEAM Designation Rubric and the Ohio Quality Model for STEM/STEAM Education. Wed, Mar 18 OSLN Spring into STEM 2026: Tour Tree of Life Elementary Polaris Campus / Tree of Life Elementary - Polaris Campus Details Mar 18, 2026, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Tree of Life Elementary - Polaris Campus, 2150 E Powell Rd, Columbus, OH 43240, USA The Ohio STEM Learning Network, Tree of Life Elementary - Polaris, and The PAST Foundation are collaborating for a site visit at a premier STEM School in Central, Ohio. Our Work is Powered by Collaboration We’re proud and grateful to partner with forward-thinking funders, school districts, and industry leaders who believe in transforming education through action. Explore Tools & Stories That Inspire We share what we’ve learned so others can build what’s next. Dive into our collection of resources, stories, and tools. View All Resources Learning Unboxed Podcast Portable Innovation Labs Hacking School Online Courses Ready to Link Learning to Life? We believe real-world learning empowers people of all ages to thrive in life, work, and community. Our evidence-based, hands-on approach builds an inclusive, equitable, and innovative future of learning. Join the PAST Team Contact Us Donate Join Our Newsletter

Discover how to invest in the future of learning. Support PAST's mission to transform education and prepare students for real-world success. Invest in the Future of Learning Real-world learning. Lasting community impact. We connect students, educators, and partners to the future of education through innovation, research, and hands-on programs. Donate Now Why Give to PAST? For over 20 years, we’ve helped reimagine education through hands-on programs, research and development, and strategic partnerships that prepare students for real-world success. With your help, we can: Provide scholarships and hands-on learning for students Train educators to teach with purpose, creativity, and relevance Expand access to STEM programs in underserved communities Sustain and grow innovative spaces like the PAST Innovation Lab Honor legacies that continue to shape our mission Ways to Give One-Time Gift or Monthly Support Make a gift that fits your budget and your values. You can choose to give now, set up monthly donations, or become an annual sustaining partner. Honor Someone Special Celebrate a mentor, student, or loved one with a gift in their memory or name. We currently honor: Chad Raymond Memorial Scholarship Beverly Ann Erwin “Bev’s Garden” Support a Program You Care About Select a focus area that matches your passion: Student Programs Support after-school opportunities, summer learning, and scholarships that help students grow confidence and career-ready skills. Girls Who Lead Help empower young women to pursue and lead in STEM fields. STEM Professional Development Provide teachers and school leaders with tools and training that make learning meaningful and future-focused. PAST Innovation Lab Support our one-of-a-kind educational R&D lab where students, educators, and industry come together to create the future of learning. STEM Action Center Advance regional collaboration and programming that brings STEM to life in Ohio schools. Bev’s Garden Contribute to the care and growth of this living memorial and outdoor learning space. Want to Do More? There are many ways to support our work beyond a financial donation. Donate Time or Expertise Mentor a student, support a project, or lend your professional skills. Give In-Kind Resources From equipment to curriculum materials, in-kind gifts help us serve more students with greater impact. Partner on a Project Have an idea for collaboration? We’re always open to new ways to connect. Let us know what you’re thinking. Contact Us Donate Now Make Your Gift Today Join us in building the future of education—one student, one idea, one program at a time.

Discover how Metrobots, a leading high school robotics team, excels in design and competition. Join Metrobots and explore their innovative journey! Metrobots Metrobots are more than a robotics team. They're a hands-on training ground for problem-solvers, innovators, and future engineers. The Metrobots are a high school robotics team that designs, builds, and competes as part of the global FIRST Robotics Competition . Based at the PAST Innovation Lab in Columbus, Ohio, the team combines technical skill with collaboration and creativity to solve real-world engineering challenges. What Sets Metrobots Apart Powered by PAST PAST is the proud hosting sponsor and fiscal agent of the team, providing equipment, mentors, and lab access. Proven Performance The Metrobots have earned a reputation for excellence — competing at the FIRST World Championship and bringing home awards for innovation, impact, and leadership. Community Impact From mentoring other teams to leading engineering workshops across Ohio, Metrobots are committed to giving back and helping grow the next generation of STEM talent. Want to Help Make More of This Possible? Every recognition is the result of partnership. If you’re interested in supporting our work or becoming a funding partner, we’d love to hear from you! Partner with Us Make a Donation Timeline of Achievements 2024: Regional Finalists – Buckeye Regional 2023: Outreach Expansion – 10+ statewide community events 2022: Regional Chairman’s Award – Miami Valley 2017: Engineering Inspiration Award – FIRST World Championship 2015–2018: Qualified for World Championships Want to Get Involved? Whether you're a parent, a sponsor, or a future Metrobot, there are many ways to be part of the team. Donate to PAST Foundation Become a Partner

Discover how Columbus EcosySTEM transforms K–12 education with innovative learning experiences. Learn more about Columbus EcosySTEM today! Columbus EcosySTEM Transforming K–12 Education for the Future What is Columbus EcosySTEM? Columbus EcosySTEM is a bold new approach to K–12 education that reimagines how and where learning happens. Designed in collaboration with PAST Foundation, 100 Roads , and Education Reimagined , this initiative builds a community-based network of learning hubs and virtual home bases—connecting students directly to real-world learning in their neighborhoods. Community Centered Learning Learning doesn't stop at school walls. Our approach uses a flexible network of learning hubs, field sites, and virtual home bases that embed learning directly into neighborhoods and communities. It’s an endeavor to fundamentally change what K–12 teaching and learning looks like in central Ohio. Fresh Vision for Education We’re redefining education by breaking free from traditional classrooms. Learning is now woven into our communities through a network of hubs, field sites, and innovative “home bases”. These virtual “home bases” serve as anchors for learners, advisors, and educators, connecting them directly with education in their neighborhoods. Student Fulfillment and Belonging Our main mission is designed to nurture a sense of fulfillment, purpose, and belonging among learners. This innovative approach ensures that young people discover their role within the growing community, seize opportunities as local businesses flourish, and gain a deep understanding of how they can contribute. Join the Movement We've already welcomed nearly 100 students into this groundbreaking ecosystem! Education Reimagined is partnering with communities nationwide to lay the groundwork for similar initiatives, creating a powerful learning experience for students. Contact Us About PAST Foundation We're a non-profit organization leading innovative educational opportunities worldwide. With 20+ years of experience, we've impacted countless students and educators, and engaged with numerous businesses and industry leaders. Our mission is to create a community of learners, empowering students to tackle global challenges. PAST has received recognition from the U.S. Department of Education, been featured in Forbes Magazine, and acknowledged by the White House Summit on High School Design!

Discover free, virtual STEM learning with STEM Streaming from the PAST Foundation. Perfect for classrooms or at-home learning. Explore STEM Streaming now! STEM Streaming Your hub for free, virtual STEM learning experiences Whether you're teaching from a classroom, a living room, or anywhere in between, these resources are designed to support creativity, problem-solving, and real-world learning at every level. Learning Unboxed Podcast Hosted by PAST Founder and CEO Annalies Corbin, this podcast explores the future of teaching, learning, and workforce development. Tune in for conversations that challenge assumptions and spark new ideas. Listen to the Podcast STEM Activities at Home Explore our growing library of downloadable STEM design challenges, perfect for at-home learning, classrooms, libraries, and more. Activities are designed to be accessible, engaging, and adaptable across grade levels. Browse Activities Webinars for Educators Check out a list of our upcoming webinars, previously recorded webinars, and register to attend our Teacher Chat Thursday! Webinars for Educators Curated External Resources We’ve gathered additional free STEM resources to extend your learning, including: Women in Computer Science Columbia Engineering’s Coding Resources for Women Online Class Tips and Tools Simple STEM Activities to do at Home Explore More STEM Resources Want more STEM ideas, tools, and inspiration? Check out our other virtual resources or get in touch with our team. Browse All Virtual Resources Connect with the PAST Team

Discover Maker Mania, the ultimate event for creativity and community. Join Maker Mania to unleash your inner engineer or tinkerer today! Maker Mania Hands-On STEM Fun for the Whole Family Join us at Maker Mania for an evening of creativity, curiosity, and community! Whether you’re a budding engineer, young explorer, or lifelong tinkerer, Maker Mania offers something for everyone. Experience interactive STEM stations, collaborative challenges, and hands-on activities that spark imagination and inspire innovation. This event is free and open to the public. Families, students, and curious minds of all ages are welcome. Upcoming Events Our next Maker Mania events are in the works! Event dates, locations, and registration details will be announced soon. Sign up for Email Updates Maker Mania on The Lawn at CAS Maker Mania on The Lawn at CAS Maker Mania on The Lawn at CAS Maker Mania on The Lawn at CAS Maker Mania on The Lawn at CAS Maker Mania on The Lawn at CAS Thank You to Our Partners Maker Mania is made possible through generous support from our partners and collaborators. Want more opportunities to explore, create, and connect through real-world learning? Check Out our Upcoming Events

Discover how the Central Ohio STEM Action Center enhances STEM education in the region. Learn more about the Central Ohio STEM Action Center now! Central Ohio STEM Action Center A regional hub of innovation, partnership, and opportunity Powered by PAST The OSLN Central Ohio STEM Action Center connects and amplifies STEM education across the region. As a hub of the Ohio STEM Learning Network (OSLN), we bring together educators, schools, businesses, and community partners to build meaningful, real-world learning opportunities for students. We don’t just support programs—we help design, launch, and sustain STEM platform schools that become models of innovation for the entire state. School Design & STEM Designation We coach schools through the process of becoming officially STEM designated by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. This includes design support, PD, implementation strategy, and stakeholder engagement. Become a STEM Designated School Professional Learning Through embedded coaching, workshops, and immersive PD, we equip teachers and leaders to implement project-based, student-centered STEM learning. Ecosystem Building We connect K–12 schools with higher ed, industry, and nonprofit partners to create learning opportunities that are relevant, authentic, and career-aligned. R&D and Prototyping We help schools pilot, refine, and share new instructional approaches. Through real-time testing and feedback, we help turn good ideas into sustainable models. Designated STEM Schools in Central Ohio We support a growing list of STEM and STEAM designated schools across Ohio. Each one demonstrates a commitment to hands-on, inquiry-based learning connected to real-world challenges. Metro Early College High School Marysville STEM Early College High School West High School Herbert Mills STEAM Elementary STEM Middle at Baldwin Road Summit Road STEM Elementary Horizon Science Academy - High School Par Excellence STEM Academy Tree of Life Christian Schools - Polaris Campus View Full List of Ohio STEM Schools Become a Designated STEM School Our Partners We collaborate with leaders in tech, health, education, and manufacturing to connect learning to real life. These partnerships provide mentorships, internships, classroom resources, and more. Join our growing STEM network! Become a Partner Ways to Learn & Engage Explore hands-on opportunities, upcoming events, and tools to support your work in STEM education. Featured Resources Rapid Prototyping Toolkit K–12 STEM Case Studies OSLN e-Newsletter STEM Designation Process Overview Upcoming Events View Upcoming OSLN Events

Fabrication and Design Fundamentals 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 entry-level credential equips learners with the fundamental tools and mindset necessary for digital fabrication. Students acquire foundational skills in 2D/3D design, 3D printing, and scanning, while simultaneously developing project management and documentation practices essential for industry readiness. Upon successful completion and passing of this course, you will be eligible for the Fabrication Fundamentals Credential offered by The PAST Foundation’s Innovation Fab Lab. 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 entry-level credential equips learners with the fundamental tools and mindset necessary for digital fabrication. Students acquire foundational skills in 2D/3D design, 3D printing, and scanning, while simultaneously developing project management and documentation practices essential for industry readiness. Upon successful completion and passing of this course, you will be eligible for the Fabrication Fundamentals Credential offered by The PAST Foundation’s Innovation Fab Lab. 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 Create and Communicate an Initial Capstone Project Proposal: Develop a comprehensive project proposal that effectively communicates the project objectives, scope, and potential outcomes. Navigate and Apply Version Control Tools: Familiarize yourself with version control software and utilize it effectively for collaborative project management and code revision. Select and Utilize 2D and 3D Design Software: Master the use of 2D and 3D design software to create visually appealing and functional designs. Produce Functional Objects through 3D Printing and Scanning: Implement 3D printing and scanning techniques to fabricate functional objects from digital models. Key Competencies Project Planning & Digital Documentation 2D & 3D CAD Modeling Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) Digital Object Scanning Introduction to Molding & Casting Introduction to Web Development & Version Control Skills You'll Learn 2D and 3D CAD modeling 2D - Design with vector and raster tools. Students use vector-based programs like Inkscape and Affinity Designer, as well as raster-based tools like GIMP, to create planar designs. These designs often include drawing geometric shapes, text, and preparing files for laser cutting or vinyl cutting. 2D Design: Create shapes with holes, design patterns for laser cutting, and make outlines for mechanical parts. For example, document the process of constructing a box with holes utilizing a 2D CAD program, subsequently manipulating surfaces to facilitate further 3D endeavors. 2D - Use tools like Affinity Designer, Cut2D Pro, BoxySVG and GIMP to design and modify images for fabrication, such as logos, signs, or circuit board graphics 3D - Object and Mold Design: Model both objects and their corresponding molds. For example, use Rhino to model a chess piece or other game piece (positive), then design a negative mold around it, considering manufacturing constraints like end mill diameter and demolding angles. 3D - Mechanical Part Modeling: Design mechanical assemblies in programs like Fusion360, Onshape, and Solidworks. This process includes modeling intricate components, including link beams and wheel swing arms, assigning appropriate materials, and rendering colored models for visualization and animation purposes. 3D Replication of Project Components: In the context of capstone projects, students engage in the replication and refinement of project components employing diverse 3D CAD tools. This process entails a comparative analysis of workflows and functionalities across various software platforms. Additive Manufacturing Students will design and 3D print objects not possible with subtractive manufacturing Students will create functional prototypes Students will evaluate 3D printer design rules and constraints Print angle tests and overhang and bridging tests Design Concepts Students will apply design thinking, CAD, digital fabrication workflows, integration of electronics mechanics, full system integration, and documentation and communication. 3D Printing processes and production Students will utilize 3D modeling, slicing, and print preparation techniques to design and manufacture functional components. 3D scanning and digital object capture Students will acquire the knowledge and skills to digitize real-world objects and seamlessly incorporate those scans into digital fabrication processes. Students gain practical knowledge of how 3D scanning can be utilized for reverse engineering purposes. Digital Documentation Students will develop and maintain a personal website and portfolio showcasing their skills and accomplishments. Project management fundamentals Students will meticulously document the defining scope of the capstone project, a detailed breakdown of tasks and deliverables, resource allocation, the establishment of deadlines, and ongoing progress monitoring. Additionally, they will implement iterative and spiral development methodologies, effectively manage parallel tasks, and ensure comprehensive documentation of the entire project lifecycle. Industry Jobs You Can Obtain With This Credential Alignment with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model The competencies and skills found in the Fabrication and Design Fundamentals course closely align with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model, both in technical expertise and essential workplace capabilities expected by Ohio manufacturers. Below is a direct comparison between the course objectives/skills and major strands from Ohio's official model. Learn More Alignment to Advanced CTE and Credentials Matter This curriculum aligns closely with Advanced CTE (Career & Technical Education) principles and expectations—particularly within clusters such as Advanced Manufacturing and Digital Technology—by integrating rigorous technical skills, project management, digital communication, and hands-on technology with career readiness and academic standards. Learn More

Explore our Annual Reports to see the impact of PAST Foundation. View the current Annual Report and learn more about our mission. Annual Reports View Current Annual Report Each year, the PAST Foundation publishes an Annual Report to reflect on our work, celebrate accomplishments, and share where we’re headed. In addition to the subject matter typically found in Annual Reports, we share exciting results and activities from our Evaluation & Knowledge Capture studies, camps for students and teachers, the progress of TPBL and the future for PAST transformational work being done in schools throughout the country. 2024 Annual Report Explore Previous Reports 2022-2023 Annual Report 2020 Annual Report 2019 Annual Report 2018 Annual Report 2017 Annual Report 2016 Annual Report 2015 Annual Report 2013 – 2014 Annual Report 2012 Annual Report 2011 Annual Report 2010 Annual Report 2009 Annual Report 2008 Annual Report

Discover how our Strategic Consulting services can transform your organization. Partner with us for tailored strategies and actionable insights. Strategic Consulting What We Do Our consulting work is rooted in design thinking, transdisciplinary learning, and systems change. We tailor our approach to your goals —offering insight, collaboration, and actionable strategy. We help partners: Co-design educational programs aligned to real-world outcomes Facilitate strategic planning and ideation sessions Develop innovative community engagement models Integrate STEM and workforce readiness into existing initiatives Evaluate programs for continuous improvement and impact Who We Work With School & District Leaders looking to align learning with student passions and workforce needs Foundations & Nonprofits developing education or community initiatives Business & Industry Partners Government & Policy Organizations building scalable, equity-focused solutions Why Partner with PAST With experience across 29 states and international projects, our team brings a unique combination of research, practice, and creativity. From launching the PAST Innovation Lab to shaping national models for education reform, we’ve helped hundreds of organizations take bold steps forward. Our track record includes: 03 Thousands of successful collaborations with schools, companies, and communities 02 Smart 50 Award for Top Innovation 01 US Department of Education Excellence in Innovation Award PAST is truly a remarkable group of thinkers and innovators. Partnering with them to create their space, PAST Innovation Lab is a place where ideas come to fruition.” — Todd Boyer, Principal, WSA Studio Let’s Build What’s Next If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, we’d love to connect. Get In Touch

Kayla Galloway Research Field Manager Kayla Galloway joined PAST in 2014 as a member of the PAST’s Research team. Since that time, Kayla has contributed to major research projects evaluating Ohio STEM education programs as well as program implementation in multiple states. Kayla has applied her ethnographic skills in creative ways, developing her work to focus on analysis and graphic presentation of evaluation data. She has contributed to dozens of evaluation reports during her career at the PAST Foundation. In addition to her work with the research team, Kayla is the Onsite Event Coordinator for Innovation1003 , a social enterprise of the PAST Foundation. In this work Kayla is part of a team that provides event services for the PAST Innovation Lab, offering an exciting inspirational center for diverse community groups including those working to build public/private partnerships in STEM education involving educators, private industry, as well as PAST program partners. She also enjoys collaborating with her fellow colleagues to plan and execute internal events, such as PAST’s annual fundraiser. When not at PAST, Kayla can be found pursuing her passion for the outdoors, kayaking and hiking Ohio waterways and trails, and is active in canvasing events for local and national elections. Kayla received her B.A in Anthropology with a focus in Archaeology and Cultural Anthropology from The Ohio State University in 2015. Email: kgalloway@pastfoundation.org | LinkedIN: @Kayla Galloway

Kathy D. Wright, EMBA, M.Ed. Director of Educator Experiences Kathy is a 26 year veteran educator of Cincinnati Public Schools where she served as a science educator, program facilitator, instructional coach and administrator. Kathy now works as an education, culture and leadership consultant and works with organizations to develop innovative practices that lead to extraordinary outcomes. Kathy is also the former Division Director of Multicultural/Equity in Science Education for the National Science Teachers Association Kathy has Bachelor degrees in Biology and Secondary Science Education, an Executive MBA from Howard University, and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction Secondary Science Education from the University of Cincinnati. Email: kwright@pastfoundation.org