Innovation Week 2024 Sees Record Attendance, Expands STEAM Outreach Across OKCPS
Pictured: An OKCPS student learns how to fly drones through an obstacle course from Dove Science Academy’s Aerial Drone Team
Oklahoma City — The Oklahoma City Innovation District (OKCID) hosted its third annual Innovation Week 2024 from October 1-3, bringing together over 1,000 7th-grade students from Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS) for their first look into STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math).
This year OKCID saw 1,041 participating students—a 27% increase from 2023—reflecting Oklahoma City Public Schools' broader demographics and needs. Of those attending, 92% came from economically disadvantaged households while minority representation reached 859—a 38% increase from last year.
1,041 total students attended Innovation Week
The event allowed 7th-grade students the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities that highlight real-world applications of STEAM concepts, aiming to inspire their interest in Oklahoma-based innovation.
Interactive STEAM Activities at Science Museum Oklahoma
With the support of Science Museum Oklahoma and OKCID’s strategic partnership with OKCPS, students took part in numerous hands-on activities that showcased real-world applications of STEAM concepts. Participants experienced everything from lifting fingerprints and flying drones to creating electrical circuits and optimizing paper airplane designs.
The event aimed to provide students with insights into future career opportunities in local industries while also connecting them to nearby universities.
BioTC and Industry Collaboration Lead Student Engagement
BioTC, OKCID’s initiative focused on training the region’s next biomanufacturing workforce, partnered with Nikon to offer students the opportunity to view their cheek cells under a microscope. This booth was part of a larger array of exhibits led by industry partners, each featuring distinct activities designed to engage students.
Plans for Expansion in 2025
OKCID plans to expand Innovation Week to reach more schools across Oklahoma City next year. The district is seeking additional partnerships to continue providing impactful STEAM initiatives to more students and help them realize the exciting opportunities available in science and technology.
Pictured: OKCPS Student asks SWOSU Bio scientist about the many diverse organisms that exist in our pond waters
About Oklahoma City Innovation District
The Oklahoma City Innovation District (OKCID) is dedicated to fostering collaboration and driving innovation to stimulate economic growth and development. By connecting diverse industries and promoting cutting-edge research, OKCID aims to create a vibrant community where ideas and opportunities thrive.
For more information about Innovation Week or to learn how you can get involved, please visit okcinnovation.com or contact monique.walker@okcinnovation.com .
Media Contact:
Emma Anderson
Oklahoma City Innovation District
Marketing Manager
Emma.anderson@okcinnovation.com
Okcinnovation.com