YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Students across the Mahoning Valley and beyond are being invited to Youngstown State University’s Williamson Innovation Park – an outdoor STEM education hub that specializes in hands-on learning. 

As an extension of YSU, the new initiative combines accessibility, technology and real-world applications to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, environmentalists and innovators.

Developed from the vision of Warren P. “Bud” Williamson, the park is meant to provide a space for students to learn with their hands and boasts a growing slate of summer camps, STEM workshops and certification programs.

“It’s essential to inspire and engage young learners early, so they not only discover a passion for STEM but are also empowered to pursue meaningful contributions in these fields,” said Emilie Brown, YSU’s director of STEM outreach and scholarships.

Located in Canfield, the park is accessible to schools and community groups. The space maintains a commitment to reaching underrepresented groups and communities in the Mahoning Valley region. 

As part of its vision, the park is preparing to expand into certification programs in fields such as drone piloting, offered in partnership with YSU’s College of STEM. Plans are underway to integrate BattleBot and Mars rover team practice areas, astronomical telescope programming and fieldwork connected to YSU degrees and certificates. YSU teams such as the Baja racing team and concrete canoe team are also developing spaces on the property for practicing and testing.

“Having that link to YSU and their teams is really beneficial for both sides,” said Michelle Channing, coordinator for STEM outreach and scholarships. “It’s still in the early stages, but we are definitely growing.”

With facilities and space for all STEM-related experiences, Williamson Innovation Park is designed to be a living lab where the lines between education and exploration are blurred.

This summer, the park will host three summer camps:

  • July 14-18: Eco Explorers: Discover, Protect, Thrive! For rising fifth through eighth graders.
  • July 28-Aug. 1: Aviation Adventure Camp: Soaring into STEM for rising fifth through eighth graders.
  • Aug. 4-8: Wireless Communication Camp for rising sixth through ninth graders.

Camps will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Drop-off is from 8:30 to 9 a.m., and pickup is from 3 to 4 p.m. Registration closes two weeks prior to the start of camp or when the camp is full. Space is limited.

The park’s growth depends on community support. Local educators, STEM professionals and organizations are invited to collaborate, donate and volunteer. The facility will also be available for event rentals related to STEM outreach, and donors can help fund transportation, equipment and scholarships.

To learn more about camps and to get involved or donate, visit click HERE or email Brown at ebrown@ysu.edu.