Our mission
Build the innovators of 2030
iSTREAM empowers students ages nine and up to become the innovators, creators, and problem-solvers of 2030 and beyond.
Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and exposure to emerging fields, we prepare young people to lead in Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, the Arts, Mathematics including Aviation, and Innovation. We are building futures for all communities.
Our vision
Every student, multiple pathways
iSTREAM envisions a future where every student has access to multiple learning pathways that spark curiosity, build confidence, and unlock opportunities in STEAM and emerging fields.
By creating dynamic, hands-on experiences that honor each student’s interests and strengths, we empower young people to explore, engage, and excel in Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, with the inclusion of Aviation, and Innovation.
Our vision is to inspire students to become agents of change — leaders who uplift their communities, drive progress, and shape a better world.
“The inclusion of research in iSTREAM is intentional. Research skills help students thrive in any field.”
Dr. Brita A. Theadford, Executive Director
Our story
Founded in 2022, built on research
iSTREAM was founded in 2022 by educators and STEM professionals who saw the same gap from different sides: students were interested in science, technology, and engineering, but the hands-on experiences that turn interest into skill were not reaching them.
The name stands for Innovation in Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. The inclusion of Research is deliberate. Students who learn how to ask a good question, test an idea, and explain what they found are prepared for any field they choose.
From the Executive Director
A pathway to bigger possibilities
My professional career began at Lockheed Martin, where I was immersed in technology and innovation. It was my transition into education that showed me the problem clearly: students often struggle with subjects that are not presented in a way that feels engaging and achievable.
We established iSTREAM in 2022 to change that. Our programs are designed to ignite curiosity, inspire creativity, and build the confidence students need to pursue a future in STEM and STEAM.
What we value
How we run every program
01
Students first
Activities are designed for the students in the room, not for a showcase.
02
Hands on, always
Every session includes something students build, test, or present.
03
Mentors who listen
Adults share a pathway and make room for the student’s own direction.
04
Access over prestige
Scholarships and partnerships keep cost from deciding who participates.
05
Research as a habit
Students learn to ask, test, and explain — in any field they choose.
Your move
Help a student see what is possible.
Join a program, sponsor a seat, or give a few hours as a mentor. Every pathway starts with one door opening.