STEM Harvest

Specific Need

Ongoing events and classes that are free to attendees. 

Mission

To provide an environment where area youth can learn technology-related skills such as programming, prototyping, 3D printing, and more.

Profile

In April 2023, STEM Harvest opened to allow people of all ages to explore science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through hands-on learning opportunities regardless of their gender, race, education level, or economic background. Through grants, donations, business sponsorships, self-funding, and a lot of sweat, we have kept our overhead low and as a result, our events have been pay-what-you-can, aka free. In addition, many STEM-focused, non-profit groups use our space as their homebase – cybersecurity meet-ups, robotics students, amateur radio groups, etc. A majority of our programming is for kids, but even that’s not easy... One of our greatest accomplishments is meeting “learners” where they are at in both skill and ability. We have hosted classes/events for K-5, middle and high school, college students, 4-H, girl scouts, IDD individuals, blind students, and adults. We were also one of the lead organizations and host locations for the 1st annual downtown Hays science festival, which is coming up on year 2 on May 3rd, 2026. In a rural community, access to state-of-the-art tools, high-level knowledge, and collaborative opportunities can be limited. We believe by fostering curiosity and innovation, it strengthens our community, prepares the next generation for future careers, and helps keep Ellis County (and Kansas) growing AND thriving.