Welcome Home

STEM for Change™: The AI + STEM Lab Experience is a 10‑week virtual program where students solve real‑world problems through hands‑on projects aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using AI, cloud, and creative tools from Microsoft and Adobe, students design solutions, earn the Azure AI‑901 certification, and 10 finalists pitch live.

Get Started
Two men are sitting at a wooden table, working on a model kit with plastic parts and instruction sheets. One man has tattoos on his arms and is holding a blue tool, while the other is pointing at the instruction sheet. There are two laptops, a backpack, a green box, and a small black box on the table in a room with a red wall and a window.

Build Confidence

Present real prototypes and pitch with power.

Screenshot of an online course page titled 'Introduction to AI in Azure,' featuring a digital graphic of interconnected glowing cubes, with a button inviting to 'Continue self-directed learning.' The course details include level, roles, languages, product, subject, duration, and an option to request an achievement code.

Learn New Approaches

Explore Microsoft Azure AI-901 Fundamentals.

A webpage highlighting Adobe Express resources for K-12 and higher education students, featuring a colorful background with students, digital tools, and creative projects.

Gain Practical Tools

Build Adobe Express for Education Digital portfolios employers can actually use.

What’s Included

STEM for Change™: The AI + STEM Lab Experience is a bold, next‑generation 10‑week virtual STEM and Workforce Development accelerator designed for high‑potential students ready to move from learning to leading.

Built on the foundation of the STEM for Change™ advanced modules, this immersive experience blends AI, cloud computing, digital creativity, and real‑world problem solving with authentic industry exposure. Students don’t just explore technology, they apply it to design community‑driven solutions that address real challenges using Microsoft Copilot, AI, coding, vibe coding and Adobe creative technologies.

  • Week 1: Foundations of Innovation

    • Introduction to AI, cloud computing, and ethical technology

    • Overview of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

    • Design thinking and problem discovery

    • Industry tools onboarding (Microsoft Learn & Adobe Express for Education)

    Weeks 2–4: Research & Community Insight

    • Identifying real‑world challenges aligned to the SDGs

    • Research using Microsoft digital tools

    • Defining user needs and solution scope

    Weeks 5–8: Build & Prototype

    • AI and cloud concepts using Azure AI

    • App or solution prototype development

    • Creative design and storytelling with Adobe tools

    Weeks 9–10: Communicate & Prepare

    • Presentation and professional communication skills

    • Virtual Shark Tank–style pitch

    • Portfolio and prototype refinement

    January: Certification & Finalist Preparation (Optional)

    • Azure AI‑901 Certification exam preparation and testing

    • Advanced prototype refinement

    • Pitch coaching for the 10 finalists selected to advance

    January: Creative Pitch Shark Tank Showdown (Finalist ONLY)

    • In‑person Shark Tank–style pitch

    • Students present solutions to industry leaders

    • Live feedback, networking, and recognition

  • Students who successfully earn the AI‑901 credential gain early exposure to careers in today’s fastest‑growing industries, including:

    • Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning Careers
      AI Technician, AI Analyst, Machine Learning Assistant, or future AI Engineer roles

    • Cloud & Technology Careers
      Cloud Support Specialist, Junior Cloud Engineer, IT Systems Specialist

    • Computer Science & Data Pathways
      Computer Science, Data Science, Cybersecurity, or Information Systems majors

    • STEM College & Technical Programs
      Competitive preparation for STEM degrees, dual‑enrollment programs, and technical certifications

  • By the end of the program, students have:

    • A globally recognized AI certification

    • A real‑world project aligned to the UN SDGs

    • Experience presenting to industry professionals

    • A portfolio artifact and pitch story colleges and employers value

    This program prepares students not just for the next grade level, but for the future economy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • STEM for Change is designed for middle school and high school students, especially student‑athletes, who are interested in STEM, technology, creativity, and building real‑world career skills.

  • The course runs for 10 weeks, with guided learning, hands‑on projects, and weekly deliverables designed to be manageable alongside school and athletic schedules.

  • No prior experience is required. The course is built to support beginners while also providing meaningful challenges for students with prior exposure to STEM or technology tools.

  • Students will need:

    • A device with internet access

    • A school email address

    • Curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to try new things

    All required tools and platforms are introduced during the course.

  • By the end of STEM for Change, participants will complete:

    • A digital workforce portfolio built in Adobe Express

    • A community‑impact prototype aligned to a UN Sustainable Development Goal

    • A final presentation or pitch showcasing your work and learning

    • Progress toward or completion of an industry‑recognized certification pathway

  • Students will use:

    • Adobe Express for Education for digital portfolios and branding

    • Microsoft tools (including Copilot, Teams, and Microsoft Learn)

    • Guided resources for AI Fundamentals.

    All tools are introduced step‑by‑step during the course.

  • The course strengthens:

    • Digital portfolios for internships, college, or career exploration

    • Presentation and communication skills

    • Real‑world problem‑solving and innovation experience

    • Confidence in navigating technology‑driven career pathways

  • Participants receive:

    • Guidance from trained facilitators or coaches

    • Clear weekly instructions and rubrics

    • Feedback on portfolios, prototypes, and presentations

    • Access to resources and help throughout the program