COSI marks first graduation from long-term STEAM program for middle and high school students
COSI celebrates the first group of students to complete THE PLATFORM, a multi-year initiative designed to build real-world STEAM skills and support long-term college and career readiness.
The Center of Science and Industry (COSI), a science museum and education center based in Columbus, Ohio, has marked the graduation of the first cohort from THE PLATFORM, its immersive STEAM pipeline program designed to support college and workforce readiness from middle school through high school.
COSI launched THE PLATFORM in 2021 to provide long-term academic and industry-aligned support to students interested in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). Over four years, participating students engaged in weekly sessions at COSI and took part in activities including coding, DNA extraction, and bridge design.
College and career progression paths
The first graduating class includes ten seniors. Students have secured places at institutions such as The Ohio State University, Ohio Wesleyan University, and Columbus State Community College. Some graduates will enter military service, including the U.S. Navy.
The program structure includes weekly STEAM-focused sessions, college preparation workshops, and field trips to universities and employers. It also offers mentorship and summer camps designed to build academic confidence and practical experience.
Regional industry collaboration
THE PLATFORM was developed with input and funding from partners including Battelle, American Electric Power Foundation, and AT&T Ohio. These collaborations have supported site visits and experiential learning aligned with regional workforce needs in science and technology sectors.
Dr. Frederic Bertley, President and CEO of COSI, said: “THE PLATFORM is proof that when students are given the tools to explore, they will discover the extraordinary. Today, we celebrate a group of students who have proven that with the right opportunities, there are no limits to what they can achieve. These young minds are pushing the frontiers of STEAM, and their journeys are only just beginning.”
Program expansion underway
COSI currently supports five cohorts of students across middle and high school, averaging 15 participants per cohort. At full implementation, the program will serve 105 students in grades six through twelve.
