Mid-America Science Park

Scottsburg, Indiana | Scott County, Indiana

Students & Parents

Students & Parents

Elementary through High School

The Mid-America Science Park offers students an introduction to the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). Students should contact their school principal or guidance counselor to enroll in the programs below.

VEX-IQ Robotics for Young Students

VEX-IQ is a robotics system designed to offer young students an introduction to the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). Elementary and middle school students in the VEX-IQ robotics program build robots and practice programming skills in regional competitions with other students (July-May). Middle and high school students learn coding skills that are critical to technology, design, marketing, manufacturing and many other careers.

Program Director Bobbie Foster on Scott County’s popular youth robotics program.

Students practice programming skills that are critical to advanced manufacturing jobs while learning important lifelong skills at the same time. Working together in teams of four to 10, students build robots and prepare for popular VEX-IQ competitions which range from local events to the annual world competition.

Robotics is a fun activity for students and their families. Austin, Crothersville and Scottsburg schools currently have partnerships in place with MASPark and VEX Robotics for their students to participate. Other groups such as 4-H Clubs, churches and Boys & Girls Clubs are also encouraged to get involved. Parents and teachers are welcome to volunteer as well.

3-D Design Lab

The Mid-America Science Park has an exciting new area where local students design and build objects that are created with 3-D printing, CNC machining or other more traditional tools. This space provides students with the opportunity to learn valuable skills for taking their ideas from discovery to developing them into workable products. 3-D design skills are extremely useful in STEM, advanced manufacturing, design and art fields.

High School

High school students can earn college credit hours through a program offered by Ivy Tech Community College at the Mid-America Science Park. Students get a head start on their college education, saving time and money while earning industry-recognized certifications that boost future employment opportunities and support continuing education. Students can start taking courses as early as the 10th grade. The following programs are available:

  • Welding 
    • Earn an American Welding Society (AWS) certification in stick welding
    • Complete up to nine (9) credit hours towards an Ivy Tech degree
    • Industry partners are in place for securing internships and post high school job placements
  • Advanced Manufacturing
    • Earn an MSSC Certification
    • Complete six (6) credit hours towards an AAS in technology
    • Area manufacturers need and give preference to MSSC certified students
Student Olivia Hamelman on how training at MASPark in high school is preparing her for a career.

Youth Entrepreneurs

High school students can participate in the Maverick Challenge, a business planning and pitch contest. Kick-off is in August, with a registration deadline in September. For more, visit maverickchallenge.com. Students can also participate in the Innovate WithIN™ pitch competition. Visit innovatewithin.org for details and registration.

To enroll in these programs available at Mid-America Science Park, students should contact their guidance counselor or school administrator.