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GSSEM Unveils the New Mobile STEAM Lab
This innovative, traveling classroom offers hands-on learning experiences in subjects like coding, robotics, engineering, and scientific exploration.
May 28, 2025
Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan (GSSEM) has launched a Mobile STEAM Lab designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving among students across southeastern Michigan. The innovative, traveling classroom was officially unveiled on Tuesday, May 20, at Mackenzie Elementary/Middle School, offering hands-on learning experiences in subjects such as coding, robotics, engineering, and scientific exploration. Funded by General Motors, Comcast, and the Vilcek Foundation, the mobile lab prepares students for success in tomorrow's workforce.
The Mobile STEAM Lab features a dynamic curriculum, developed by The Lab Drawer, catering to students in grades K-5. The curriculum encourages creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking among participating students by providing an engaging and accessible way to develop essential 21st-century skills. Whether students are learning to program a robot, engineer a paddle boat, design a video game, or conduct chemistry experiments, students will gain confidence in a fun and supportive environment.
"This is a pivotal moment in our mission to inspire the next generation of innovators. With the launch of our Mobile STEAM Lab, we're breaking down barriers and bringing hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math learning directly to students in Metro Detroit who need it most," said Monica Woodson, CEO of GSSEM. "This isn't just a truck—it's a catalyst for curiosity, a classroom on wheels, and a promise that every child deserves the chance to discover their potential. Together, we're fueling dreams and building a brighter future, one lesson at a time."
In partnership with Data Driven Detroit (D3), GSSEM conducted a study that identified disparities in STEM education across Southeastern Michigan. In response, GSSEM developed the Mobile STEAM Lab to meet the needs identified in the study and ensure that all local schools and communities have access to the resources needed to close those gaps.
As part of the rollout of the Mobile STEAM Lab, GSSEM is conducting a pilot program to gather feedback and insights on the Mobile STEAM Lab from students, faculty, parents, and community members to help further shape the courses, programs, and experiences it offers. Throughout the pilot phase, GSSEM partnered with multiple school districts across Southeastern Michigan to provide early access to the hands-on experience. The pilot program launched in mid-April and will continue throughout early June.
"Engaging young learners in STEAM-based activities is essential to building the curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills they'll carry into the future," said Melissa Nickel, principal at Beech Elementary School. The Mobile STEAM Lab brought key subjects to life in a way that was both exciting and meaningful for our students. Hands-on experiences like these spark a love of learning early on, and I encourage other districts to take advantage of this incredible resource. We're deeply grateful to Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan for allowing us to participate in the pilot program and for their commitment to inspiring the next generation of thinkers and innovators."
