Empowering the Next Generation of Creators
At Innovation Station in Knoxville, TN, we believe the best way to learn is by doing, experimenting, and trying again. Through hands-on STEM activities, robotics, and creative engineering challenges, we inspire young inventors to think bigger, build boldly, and discover what they're capable of achieving.
Our Mission
At Innovation Station, our mission is to provide hands-on, high-energy experiences that inspire creativity and build problem-solving skills. We believe that true confidence comes from building something with your own two hands and seeing it work. By combining the excitement of competition with the principles of the engineering design process, we help builders of all ages discover what they are truly capable of creating.
How We Build Confidence
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![A man and two young girls in a room with glass door, with the man pointing at one girl who is wearing a green shirt and holding a device, and the other girl standing behind them smiling, with colorful paper flowers on the wall and balloons on the floor. Outside the door, a grassy area is visible.]()
Hands-On First
No screens, no lectures. We put materials directly into the hands of our participants so they can learn through immediate, real-world action.
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![A circular diagram illustrating a continuous improvement process. Sections include Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, Test, with an arrow labeled 'Improve' indicating a cycle for goal achievement.]()
The Engineering Design Process
Every session encourages creators to ask questions, imagine solutions, plan their designs, and test their ideas in a structured environment.
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![Fifth grade robot design project with colorful robot models, small ramps, and a fenced area for a robot competition.]()
Failing Forward
In our battles, Create-O-Bots will break or get stuck—and that is exactly the point! Creators learn to embrace challenges, make quick adjustments, and improve their designs.
Meet Dr. Adam Maitland
Innovation Station was founded by Adam Maitland, Ed.D., an educator with a passion for bringing hands-on, interactive learning to life. With years of experience in education and curriculum development, Dr. Adam saw a need for more programs that allowed participants to step away from screens and engage in real, physical problem-solving.
He created Innovation Station to give future creators a space where they can brainstorm big ideas, build them from scratch, and battle them in a fun, supportive environment.
Let's Build Something Great
Ready to bring the excitement of Innovation Station to your next event or party?