AMP Lab open house expands in fourth year to offer more STEAM experiences
Kids take a tour to explore what's inside the AMP Lab and test out their strength lifting Thor's hammer during the 2024 open house.
Kids race remote controlled solar powered cars with WMU's Sunseeker team during the 2024 AMP Lab open house.
A kid in line to make a button with representatives from the West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology (WMCAT).
Kids and parents build LEGO mosaics with Buster Bronco and Bricks 4 Kidz during the 2024 AMP Lab Family Open House.
Kids have fun building and constructing with Tinker Toys at the AMP Lab open house.
Kids watch an EggBot translate their design onto a ping pong ball.
Adults and kids work on motorized LEGO building with Bricks 4 Kidz.
A kid watches a 3D printer in action at the 2024 AMP Lab open house.
Kids learn about circuitry concepts by following instructions to complete a snap circuit kit activity.
Kids of all ages listen closely to a presenter as they assemble a flashlight using parts made by a CNC machine at the 2024 AMP Lab open house.
Kids and families have the opportunity to experience the excitement of sitting in a WMU College of Engineering and Applied Sciences Formula SAE car.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—Western Michigan University-Grand Rapids is gearing up to host the 4th annual AMP Lab Family Open House, an exciting and growing event that inspires young minds through hands-on experiences in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). This year’s open house, set for Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at WMU-Grand Rapids located at 200 Ionia Ave. SW, will be bigger than ever, expanding beyond the AMP Lab to include activities on the 5th floor of the Grand Rapids regional campus.
This free, family-friendly event welcomes children ages 5-12 to explore interactive exhibits, cutting-edge technology and creative challenges designed to spark curiosity and passion for STEAM fields. Highlights include robotics demonstrations, 3D printing, motorized Lego building and hands-on projects led by University departments, local industry partners and community organizations.
“Each year, the AMP Lab Family Open House grows in both attendance and impact, and we’re thrilled to expand the event further,” says Joanne Roehm, director of WMU-Grand Rapids. “This year, we are welcoming even more WMU departments, students and community partners, which means more interactive activities, more engagement and more inspiration for young learners. To accommodate this growth, we’ve expanded to the 5th floor of our building, creating new opportunities for hands-on exploration.”
The 2025 AMP Lab Family Open House is presented in partnership with Autocam Medical, Bricks 4 Kidz, The Diatribe, Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC), Grand Rapids Public Schools Robotics, YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids , STEM Greenhouse and the West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology (WMCAT). These organizations, along with WMU’s College of Aviation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Kinetic Imaging program, School of Communication and University Libraries, will provide engaging demonstrations and activities throughout the event.
“Building an early curiosity for STEAM subjects is key to preparing the next generation of problem-solvers, innovators and industry leaders,” said Kimmy Beuchler, director of WMU's Early College Programs. “The AMP Lab Family Open House is a fantastic way for kids to get excited about science and technology in a way that’s hands-on, interactive and fun. Events like this show students that the possibilities in STEAM fields are endless.”
At the heart of the AMP Lab @ WMU is a commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry, offering young learners a glimpse into the world of advanced manufacturing, engineering and design. The state-of-the-art facility, originally designed as a collaboration between WMU, Autocam Medical and GRCC, is a makerspace where students and professionals alike bring ideas to life through cutting-edge equipment and real-world applications.
“The AMP Lab @ WMU is a perfect example of how education and industry can work together to develop talent and prepare students for meaningful careers,” says John Kennedy IV, chief technology officer of Autocam Medical. “By providing early exposure to STEAM-related skills and opportunities, we help ensure a strong workforce pipeline for the future. We are proud to continue supporting this event and inspiring the next generation of innovators.”
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: AMP Lab @ WMU, 200 Ionia Ave. SW, Grand Rapids (1st, 2nd & 5th floors)
Admission: Free and open to the public
For more information, visit the WMU-Grand Rapids website or contact Joanne Roehm at (616) 742-5023.
About the AMP Lab @ WMU
The AMP Lab @ WMU is an Advanced Manufacturing Partnership Laboratory designed to connect students with hands-on learning experiences in computer numerical control (CNC) programming, computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and more. Located in downtown Grand Rapids, it serves as a hub for fostering collaboration between educators, students, and industry professionals.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.