Dupont Commits $20,000 to New STEM Center

HEMLOCK, MI – A $20,000 commitment from Dupont and the Hemlock Healthcare Industries Materials Site (HIMS) toward Hemlock Public School District’s new Hemlock Area STEM Center is proving to help move the project along with a groundbreaking planned for later this month. 

The facility will serve as a regional foundation to inspire Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) exploration by kindergarten through high school students from Merrill, Swan Valley, St. Charles, Freeland and Hemlock school districts. 

The 60’ x 80’ facility will be built on land provided by the school district near Hemlock High School. Students using the center will learn 21st century employment skills such as coding and computer-aided design, how to run electronic control systems and electronic milling machines and master emerging technologies such as CNC and 3D printing. The space also will support area FIRST robotics groups.

"We’re excited to partner with Dupont and other sponsors to expand the footprint of STEM education in our area,” said Hemlock Superintendent Don Killingbeck. “It will be of great benefit to the students who will have access to programs and equipment that will give them a head start on their future.”

Some classes are expected to be held as soon as the center is completed this summer. FIRST Robotics will begin using the facility in the fall. 

“Partnering with local STEM and FIRST robotics programs is a perfect fit for DuPont. A main pillar in our community impact strategy is empowering the next generation and both programs are doing that every day,” stated Hemlock HIMS Site Leader, Jessica Snyder.  “We look forward to supporting these programs for many years to come.” 

About Hemlock Public School District

For more information about this or other positive happenings in the Hemlock Public School District, visit us on the web at www.hemlockps.com. Please feel free to contact Technology Director Tom Lockwood, or Superintendent Don Killingbeck at (989) 642-5282 to learn more.

About DuPont 

DuPont (NYSE: DD) is a global innovation leader with technology-based materials, ingredients and solutions that help transform industries and everyday life. Our employees apply diverse science and expertise to help customers advance their best ideas and deliver essential innovations in key markets including electronics, transportation, construction, water, health and wellness, food, and worker safety. More information can be found at www.dupont.com.