Flint, MI – Sloan Museum of Discovery and Longway Planetarium have partnered with Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC) to prepare fourth graders in Genesee, Saginaw and Bay Counties to work in high-tech industries of the future. The new educational program, called "PowerUp! Workshops," is being funded by a $325,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). The project will focus on teaching manufacturing job skills such as computer chip production, solar panel development, electrical engineering, and computer programming to fourth graders. It will also emphasize soft skills such as critical thinking and communication. PowerUp! Workshops will add to existing STEM programs currently being taught by Sloan Museum and Longway Planetarium educators during school field trips, outreach programs and free family and community STEM nights.

According to Sloan Museum and Longway Planetarium Executive Director, Todd Slisher, the new, innovative program aims to foster early learning in STEM through collaborative experiences. “Genesee Intermediate School District and Flint Community Schools have committed to testing some of the program elements before rolling them out to the wider audience,” stated Slisher. “HSC is contributing advisory and staff time so the kids will learn from manufacturing professionals. Corporate and industry partners could also be involved with PowerUp! Workshops as the program ramps up,” he added.

HSC is based out of Hemlock, MI, and is a world leader in polysilicon manufacturing which is used to make computer chips and solar panels. HSC will enhance Sloan and Longway’s STEM education by providing expertise and advise for interactive learning in electricity, circuitry and engineering roles. "STEM education is a strategic investment in our region. At Hemlock Semiconductor, we’re committed to cultivating the next generation of innovators by supporting hands-on, career-connected learning. We’re proud to partner with the Great Lakes Bay Region to create real-world experiences that inspire youth and strengthen our local workforce—building the talent and resilience our industry needs to thrive," stated HSC CEO, AB Ghosh.

The PowerUp! Workshops program targets fourth-graders because it is a critical stage for STEM engagement, according to Slisher. “Our education leadership has made sure that this new program aligns with Michigan fourth-grade standards on energy and engineering design,” Slisher said. “Our research indicates that kids are highly receptive to STEM around the ages of 9 or 10, which is why we are developing a comprehensive curriculum that engages this age group,” Slisher added.

The pilot program is expected to engage up to 3,750 students and 50 teachers in STEM education. The project implementation will begin in Summer 2026.