STEMarts Lab invites students ages 13-20 to participate in STEAM Teams, a FREE remote learning/hybrid program. Each team is led by a STEAM expert who shares their knowledge, assigns hands-on projects, and guides students in creating multimedia content that becomes part of STEMarts’ cutting-edge sci-art installations. Through this collaborative and interdisciplinary experience, students develop valuable 21st-century STEAM skills while engaging in creative, real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, art, and math.
How to Get Involved:
Become a STEMarts Ambassador to qualify for one or more STEAM Teams.
Take your experience to the next level with a paid internship!
Motivated students can apply for our internship program, which requires a minimum commitment of 10 hours per week. Interns gain hands-on training in cutting-edge technologies, digital media, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Upon completion, students receive certifications in specialized skill sets, helping them build strong resumes and prepare for STEAM career pathways.
Register Here
STEAM Team: Digital Media Arts XR
What We Do
The Digital Media Arts XR team is an immersive program designed for youth to explore interactive media, projection mapping, and real-time generative art. Led by Ian Harrison, this program introduces students to creative coding, XR technologies, and digital storytelling using P5.js, TouchDesigner, Tagtool, and Kinect motion tracking. Participants will engage in hands-on projects, rotating through skill-building phases before advancing to a summer build stage where they develop a final installation for exhibition. This experience prepares students for careers in digital arts, interactive media, and immersive storytelling.
Key Takeaways:
Career Pathways – Build industry-ready skills in digital media, creative coding, and AI-powered XR design.
XR & Creative Coding – Hands-on experience with P5.js, TouchDesigner, and projection mapping.
Immersive Media Design – Learn motion tracking, generative art, and interactive storytelling.
Professional Development – Work on real-world projects for festival installations.
Collaboration & Mentorship – Engage with experts and develop team-based problem-solving skills.
Instructor: Ian Harrison
Bio: Ian Harrison is a 3D artist, animator, and programmer with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film and Digital Arts from UNM. With 14 years of experience in Blender 3D and 6 years in programming, Ian’s work blends fantasy and realism, reflecting his passion for space, video games, art, and science. This past year, Ian worked as the lead animator and editor for several live musical performance visual productions before joining Syncronos Design Inc. as the IT specialist. At Syncronos, he contributes to a full-length animated film about the world around us. That year, Ian also led enemy development for the game Botnyst and showcased an interactive projection piece in “Edge Conditions. Ian started as a STEMarts Ambassador and is now contracted to lead the digital media arts workshops and contributes creatively to the STEMarts installations.
STEAM Team: Astro Youth Space
What We Do
The Astro Youth Space Program is a hands-on initiative that empowers youth to explore space science, cultural perspectives, and digital storytelling. Led by NASA Solar System Ambassador Arwen Hubbard, the program integrates astronomy, science communication, and emerging technologies to develop space literacy while connecting space exploration to community. Participants will engage in place-based learning, multimedia content creation, and career-building activities, including podcasts and the design of AstroTours. Through mentorship, field trips, and collaborations with scientists and cultural specialists, students will develop space literacy while creating innovative projects for public engagement.
Key Takeaways:
Professional Development – Gain networking and mentorship opportunities for future careers in space science.
Space Science & Career Readiness – Learn astrophysics, dark skies research, and space industry pathways.
Cultural & Ethical Perspectives – Explore Indigenous and local connections to space.
Multimedia Storytelling – Create podcasts, video snippets, and AR space experiences.
Place-Based Learning – Lead the design of AstroTours to highlight dark skies and astronomy.
Instructor: Arwen Hubbard
Arwen Hubbard is a passionate space science educator and ecologist, holding undergraduate degrees in Resource Management and Agricultural Ecology, as well as a Master of Science in Space Studies with a focus on Planetary Science. Currently pursuing her doctorate in STEM education, Arwen’s mission is to ignite curiosity about the Universe. Based in the Northern New Mexico, Arwen teaches space science online to learners of all ages. She’s also a NASA Solar System Ambassador, an author, a science scriptwriter for educational channels, and an avid podcaster, with a focus on translating complex topics into language for learners of all ages.
STEAM Team: AI Futures and Data Science
What We Do
The AI Futures and Data Science team empowers youth to explore AI, data science, and space through an interdisciplinary, culturally responsive lens. Led by futurist Cyndi Coon, this year-long program integrates generative AI, storytelling, and creative technology to connect space science with cultural heritage. Participants will design AI-driven Space Messengers, build custom GPTs, and create multimedia installations for the Paseo Festival 2025. With mentorship from scientists, artists, and cultural specialists, students will engage in hands-on projects that blend AI ethics, artistic expression, and space exploration. The program culminates in a published anthology and interactive exhibits, fostering future leaders at the intersection of innovation, science, and storytelling.
Key Takeaways:
- AI & Data Science Readiness – Develop foundational AI skills in generative AI, machine learning, and storytelling.
- Cultural & Ethical AI – Explore AI’s role in preserving and reinterpreting cultural narratives.
- Creative Digital Media – Use AI tools to generate art, music, and immersive experiences.
- Project-Based Learning – Design AI-driven installations showcased at Paseo Festival 2025.
- Career & Leadership Skills – Gain mentorship from experts and build pathways into AI, space science, and creative technology.
Instructor: Cyndi Coon
Cyndi Coon is a futurist, creative strategist, and AI ethics educator dedicated to empowering the next generation of innovators. She is the founder of Applied Futures Lab and serves as a thought leader in emerging technologies, creative problem-solving, and strategic foresight. With a background in storytelling, generative AI, and immersive media, Cyndi works at the intersection of technology, culture, and education, designing programs that inspire curiosity and innovation. Based in New Mexico, she collaborates with global organizations, government agencies, and educators to explore the future of AI, data science, and creative technology. She is a sought-after speaker, author, and mentor, passionate about helping young minds navigate the ethical and creative possibilities of AI-driven futures.