What we do
We BUILD current and next-gen professionals. STEAM Minecraft & Pathways Program events, hosted by BESThq, curate like-minded builders via innovative and inspiring activities promoting the amazing world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM). Typically, we will provide snacks, technology tools / laptops, a secure server and space for building with current and future STEAM pros. In 2020, we’ve adapted to a FULLY VIRTUAL experience using Zoom with Breakout Rooms and our in-house, cloud accessible Minecraft Server. View Pix.
Uniquely positioned as a business community with deep STEAM roots, we “intentionally intersect” and open pathways for development of youth, as well as seasoned, pros.
Impact
From our first STEAM Minecraft Night in 2016, over 1,000 kids of all abilities have learned teamwork, problem solving, public speaking and leadership in a fun, creative and confidence building program. We’ve completed nearly 100 events in Oregon and Washington, including livestreams monthly through the pandemic!
Over 100 STEAM professionals have “paid it forward” by mentoring and coaching creating pathways to successful careers for kids.
The State of Oregon wrote an article in My Oregon News featuring program impact & opportunity.
Our purpose
BESThq’s STEAM Minecraft & Pathways events activate, engage and grow, future & current STEAM Professionals with collaborative and creative learning through STEAM focused planning, design, and building using tools such as the virtual, sandbox game Minecraft (TM), coding, legos, 3D printing and legorobotics. Beginning with late elementary and middle school youth, with focus on underrepresented communities & those with exceptionalities, the program encourages STEAM pathways while building three areas: Minds, Relationships and Opportunity.
Learn more about our vision and from our STEAM Pathways manager, Luis Lopez, in this video.
See our calendar for more information about upcoming STEAM Minecraft events.
Get involved!
4 ways to BUILD together:
- Join us at an upcoming event
- Join our BESThq STEAM Pathways Newsletter – Interest Form HERE
- Host / Sponsor future offerings and let’s build the program Sponsorship page
- Join our STEAM Pathways Coalition
- Check out and support partnering non-profit Little Engineers Education Foundation