ASML and Wakeman Boys & Girls Club Team up to bring STEM to local youth

STEM Education Works proud to help with tech, training, and support

Bridgeport, CT – October 2024 

The Wakeman Boys & Girls Club is taking STEM education beyond the classroom by launching its new ASML STEM Lab & Makerspace. Kids and teens can explore robotics, coding, engineering, hydroponics, and more in this high-tech space.

This lab, funded by ASML, is designed to help children ages 3 to 18 gain hands-on experience with STEM tools, which will prepare them for future careers and problem-solving in the real world.
“This collaboration supports our mission to help young people achieve academic success and prepare for life and workforce readiness,”
said Sabrina Smeltz, CEO of Wakeman Boys & Girls Club. “STEM education and access to technology are vital for our youth’s future.”

STEM Education Works Provides the Tools, Training & Support for Success

Chauntée Pitts, a professional learning specialist with STEM Education Works, trains a Boys & Girls Club student who also serves as a staff member.

Creating an innovative STEM space is more than just filling a room with incredible technology. It requires expert training, curriculum, and ongoing support to ensure long-term success.

That’s why Wakeman Boys & Girls Club chose STEM Education Works to provide:

• State-of-the-art STEM tools – 3D printers, laser engravers, robotics kits, and drones. 
• Professional training for staff – Ensuring educators and mentors feel confident leading STEM activities
• Curriculum & hands-on lessons – Helping kids apply STEM concepts in real-world ways
• Ongoing support & troubleshooting – Making sure the lab runs smoothly year-round

“One thing that sets us apart is our training that ensures our customers are confident with our technology,” said Kim Kallok, director of STEM Education Works. “Our goal is to make the process simple and worry-free. That’s why we make sure customers know they’re getting much more than equipment – they’re getting a full support system to make their STEM space successful.”

Helping Out-of-School Organizations Build Impactful STEM Spaces

A student, who is also a staff member, tries out the Dobot technology provided by STEM Education Works. 

The ASML STEM Lab & Makerspace is an excellent example of how out-of-school organizations can create engaging, high-quality STEM learning experiences that go beyond traditional education.

“STEM Education Works isn’t just about selling equipment,” said Kim Kallok. “We work closely with clubs, after-school programs, and community organizations to make sure their STEM spaces work – that the people running them feel trained, the kids feel engaged, and the technology is being used to its full potential.”

The STEM Education Works team is passionate about helping organizations like the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club make an impact. Whether it’s launching a new STEM space, training staff, or developing a curriculum, they ensure that out-of-school STEM programs aren’t just an idea, but a success.

“We love seeing kids excited about problem-solving,” said Chauntée Pitts, STEM Education Works Professional Learning Specialist. “Even when projects don’t go as planned, they learn to think critically, adjust, and keep going. That’s what real STEM learning is all about.”

Building More STEM Learning Spaces Nationwide

STEM Education Works is proud to be a small part of the Wakeman Boys & Girls Club’s efforts to bring hands-on STEM learning to more students. As more out-of-school organizations look to build their own STEM spaces, STEM Education Works is here to provide the technology, training, and support needed to make it happen.