Tinker Academy
June 23-26, 2026 at 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Santa Rosa Junior College
$50 | Middle School Youth (entering 6th–9th grades)
Tinker Academy is a hands-on “maker” experience where middle school students explore exciting STEM activities including coding, Robotics, 3D Printing Laser Cutting Circuit Design and other maker challenges. Youth build practical skills while developing confidence, creativity, and a stronger sense of belonging in STEM – all while spending time on a college campus.
Developed in partnership with Sonoma State University, it is designed to inspire and encourage those underrepresented in STEM fields – including girls and people of color – in this critical age group to stay engaged in math and science through hands-on, relatable projects.
Tinker Academy 2026 is funded by Imagine Science. The registration fee of $50 is required to attend.
Program History
Tinker Academy was founded as a free program designed to engage and inspire middle school students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Through hands-on maker activities that encouraged the exploration and development of technical, mathematical and artistic abilities, participants gained experience and confidence to set them up for success in school. This program was originally developed for girls and called the “Girls Tinker Academy” but is open to middle school students, including gender-expansive youth, entering 6th-9th grade.
From 2018-2024, Tinker Academy and Tinker Days was offered at no-cost to families because of generous gifts from individuals and businesses in our community. Please consider a gift today to ensure we can continue engaging and inspiring students in STEM.
Special thanks to these sponsors for supporting our 2024 programs:
Implementation Partners
Corporate Partners
