4-H Design & Innovation Studio

The 4-H Design & Innovation Studio provides low- and no-cost STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) educational experiences with a focus on building confidence and curiosity in STEAM college and career pathways.

For more information, to book your student group, or to register for open shop time, complete the form below, and our 4-H team will be in touch.

DIS Information Form

Questions?

Contact Kody Orr, Marion County 4-H STEAM Education Coordinator:

orr10@purdue.edu
317-275-9264

Who we are

The 4-H Design & Innovation Studio is home to one full-time Purdue Extension 4-H Educator dedicated to developing and facilitating hands-on STEAM programming, building impactful partnerships, and providing a positive and inclusive learning environment. 

What we do

Within a culture of equity, the 4-H Design & Innovation Studio delivers high-impact educational STEAM experiences for youth in grades K-12 that are designed to meet the unique needs of our diverse community and urban landscape.

Who we serve

The primary service mission of the 4-H DIS is to the youth living in the geographic area surrounding the 16 Tech Innovation District in downtown Indianapolis who are currently in grades 6-12. We also strive to serve as many youth as possible residing in Marion County and explore opportunities to engage younger or additional 4-H’ers in programming when possible.

Students can participate in 4-H DIS programming during pre-scheduled group workshops that can be customized to serve your group's unique needs. Additionally, individual students can register for “open shop” time. Group workshops range in length, cost, and complexity, and some limits to the number of participants may apply. Priority is given to the youth living in our target geographic area and current 4-H members and 4-H clubs. 

Why we matter

Through low- and no-cost programming, the 4-H DIS is designed to introduce students, especially those underrepresented in today’s STEAM fields, to the skills, competencies, and capabilities they need to feel confident and curious about the STEAM college and career pathways vital to Indiana’s economy. 

Equipment and Programming available in the DIS Shop

  • 3D and 2D design, modeling, and rapid prototyping
    • 5 3D printers (3DWox)
    • 1 Laser Cutter (Glowforge)
    • CNC Routing (coming soon!)
    • Software: Tinkercad, OpenBuilds CAM/CONTROL
  • Introductory Mechatronics
    • 6 Dobot Magicians
  • Introductory Programming Opportunities
    • 1 classroom set of Sphero BOLT
    • Programmable microcontrollers
  • Introductory circuit design with littleBits
  • Hand-tool usage and shop safety
    • STEAM Break Camp
  • STEAM Family Nights
  • Robotics (coming soon!)