ANN VISGER INNOVATION LAB
Ann Visger’s Innovation Lab in southeastern Michigan held a rare scene on a recent Friday morning— dozens of students and volunteers building bubble-blowing robots.
“This is my first time making a robot,” said Kaylee, a third grader at Ann Visger. “I help my dad with his car, so that’s how I know how to use a screwdriver.”
The event was made possible thanks to a generous donation of robot kits and volunteers from Kyndryl, a leading provider of mission-critical enterprise technology services.
For two hours, the third and fourth graders twisted wires onto a battery and screwed together a motor and windmill. Fourth grade teacher, Jill Thomas, excitedly took photos to share with parents via their classroom app.
“The students are so engaged— and at this age, that’s hard,” said Jill. “Something will have their attention for 10 mins and then they’re bored, but look at them now, nobody is asking me to use the restroom or get water.”
BUILDING FOUNDATIONS
After students built their bubble machines, they took home five more robots to build on their own, including a doodling robot, reptile robot, balance car, fiber lamp and buzzer game.
“I’m really excited it’s a six in one robot kit, so they can work on it with their parents,” said Jill. “These robots are a great opportunity for students to understand the missing component of technology that they don’t see looking at a screen.”
The robotics kits will reinforce a love for STEM at home. Most students couldn’t wait to finish building all their robots with their family.
“I’m going to spend all day on this in the summer,” said Princess, a third grader at Ann Visger. “Me and my cousins love to chase bubbles around.”
THE FUTURE OF STEM JOBS
River Rouge has one of the highest rates of ALICE in our region, with 74% of households struggling to make ends meet. When families earn under $35,000 annually, they are most likely to report their children do not participate in any STEM learning.
“Science, technology, engineering and math are critical for our nation’s future,” said Stefan Blache, director of manufacturing at Kyndryl. “With a talent shortage, we don’t have enough kids getting into these technical disciplines.
“That’s where the job market is going, and it’s important that students are given the opportunity to gain the skills they need to join this quickly evolving workforce.”
“With an early introduction to STEM, students feel more confident pursuing STEM careers,” said Sarah Chandler, customer partner at Kyndryl, who came all the way from Houston to visit clients and volunteer with Ann Visger’s students.
“There is not a career today untouched by technology,” said Sarah. “There are so many robotics opportunities built into the Detroit economy and it’s great if you can build a passion for that at a young age.”
Interested in increasing students’ opportunities in STEM? Click here to see sponsorship opportunities for STEMPossible, a fall event where local students experience STEM careers at the Michigan Science Center.
