Nestled in the vibrant city of Bloomington, Minnesota, The Works Museum stands as a beacon of inspiration and innovation for young minds. This interactive children’s museum is not just a place of play; it’s a dynamic space dedicated to igniting curiosity and nurturing a passion for technology and engineering among children. Let’s take a closer look at this remarkable institution and its journey to becoming a hub of hands-on technical education.
The Visionary Behind The Works:
The story of The Works Museum begins with a visionary named Rebecca Schatz, a software engineer with a deep-rooted passion for inspiring young minds. Her journey started with a visit to the Exploratorium in San Francisco, a renowned hub for interactive science exhibits. This transformative experience fueled her desire to create a similar space in her own community where children could engage with technology and engineering concepts in a fun and accessible way.
A Journey of Growth:
The Works Museum’s humble beginnings can be traced back to 1995 when it first opened as a gallery exhibition within the Bell Museum of Natural History at the University of Minnesota. Driven by the need for a dedicated space, the museum embarked on a journey of growth, temporarily residing in shopping centers and community centers in Edina, including Ridgedale (1995–1997), Eden Prairie Center (1997–1999), Southdale (1999–2002), and the Edina Community Center (2003–2011).
Despite these transitions, The Works Museum remained committed to its mission of fostering technical education for children. The annual “Tech Fest,” initiated in 2003, became a cherished tradition, providing children and families with an opportunity to delve deeper into the world of technology and engineering.
A Permanent Home in Bloomington:
In 2011, The Works Museum reached a significant milestone by securing a larger, permanent home in Bloomington. With 40,000 square feet of space, the museum was well-equipped to provide a more comprehensive and engaging experience for its visitors. This expansion marked a new chapter in the museum’s journey, allowing it to offer even more interactive exhibits and programs.
Igniting Curiosity Through Interactive Learning:
What sets The Works Museum apart is its unwavering commitment to hands-on learning. The museum provides a dynamic environment where children can explore, experiment, and engage with various exhibits that bring technology and engineering principles to life. From building structures to exploring simple machines and discovering the world of robotics, each exhibit is designed to spark curiosity and ignite a lifelong passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects.
Inspiring the Engineers and Innovators of Tomorrow:
The Works Museum is not just about learning; it’s about inspiring the engineers and innovators of tomorrow. By offering a space where children can unleash their creativity and problem-solving skills, the museum plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the STEM workforce. It provides a foundation upon which young minds can build a lifelong love for technology and engineering.
A Beacon of Community Engagement:
Beyond its exhibits and programs, The Works Museum is a beacon of community engagement. It collaborates with schools, educators, and families to provide resources and support for STEM education. The museum’s outreach efforts extend its impact beyond its walls, helping to bridge the gap in STEM education and encourage a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
The Works Museum in Bloomington, Minnesota, is more than just a children’s museum; it’s a place where dreams take flight and innovation blossoms. From its visionary beginnings to its current status as a hub of hands-on technical education, the museum has come a long way, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of young learners. As it continues to inspire the engineers, innovators, and problem solvers of tomorrow, The Works Museum remains a shining example of the power of interactive learning and the boundless potential of young minds. So, if you’re in the Twin Cities area, don’t miss the opportunity to ignite curiosity and explore the wonders of technology and engineering at The Works Museum.