PAST Foundation
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Twenty years ago, two anthropologists, a documentary film maker, a graphic designer and historian along with an international team of research scientists launched the PAST Foundation. We had one simple but fundamentally important idea: that by inviting the world to design, construct, and engage in experiences that link learning to life we could change the world. To date, over 300,000 students and
05/28/2026
Ohio Lt. Governor Jim Tressel visited the PAST Innovation Lab in Columbus as part of the WorkOhio Job Connector Tour, highlighting how hands-on STEM learning is preparing students for Ohio’s future workforce.
During the visit, The Metro Schools 5th Grade students showcased their skills in robotics, coding, 3D printing, and design technologies while sharing how real-world, problem-based learning is helping them explore careers in STEM, advanced manufacturing, transportation, and beyond.
At PAST, we’re proud to partner with educators, industry leaders, and initiatives like WorkOhio to create meaningful learning experiences that connect classroom learning to future-ready careers for Ohio students.
If you need to learn a new skill to take the next step in your career, WorkOhio is ready to get you connected now at WorkOhio.gov
Real-world problem solving in action 💡
4th grade students stepped into the role of designers, collaborators, and innovators during their Design Challenge experience at PAST! In partnership with Metro Elementary, students worked in teams to brainstorm ideas, build prototypes, and present creative solutions connected to real community issues.
From teamwork and critical thinking to hands-on STEAM learning, students brought big ideas to life while learning through the design thinking process. 🙌
A huge thank you to ChangeX for supporting this experience through their grant and helping make meaningful, student-driven learning possible.
05/12/2026
💡 How can schools create learning experiences that support whole-human development?
In this episode of Learning Unboxed, Amy Besida of discusses how experiential learning and community connection help students build agency, belonging, and purpose beyond traditional achievement culture.
🎧 Listen now: pastfoundation.org/learning-unboxed
Inspired by the conversation? Support Embarc’s mission to expand transformative learning experiences for students. Learn more & donate: embarcchicago.org/donate
05/06/2026
🚀 Ready to rethink what STEM education can be?
Join us at the Ohio STEM Summit 2026: where educators, leaders, and innovators come together to explore the future of learning.
💡 Discover new ideas
🤝 Connect with peers
🔬 Experience STEM in action
🔗 Register now: accelevents.com/e/2026-ohio-stem-summit
Battelle, Ohio STEM Learning Network (OSLN), Ohio Department of Education and Workforce
04/30/2026
💡Preparing for STEM/STEAM designation?
Join the PAST Foundation, the Central Ohio STEM Hub for the Ohio STEM Learning Network (OSLN), for a 3-part webinar series focused on Ohio’s STEM/STEAM Designation Rubric and the Ohio Quality Model.
📅 Wednesdays | 4:00–5:00 PM
May 13, May 20, May 27, 2026
Designed for principals, teacher leaders, STEM coordinators, and school design teams. Attend one session or all three.
Register at: pastfoundation.org/stem-series
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Contact the organization
Telephone
Address
1003 Kinnear Road
Columbus, OH
43212
Opening Hours
| Monday | 9am - 5pm |
| Tuesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Wednesday | 9am - 5pm |
| Thursday | 9am - 5pm |
| Friday | 9am - 5pm |
