Our Mission:
From Play to Prototypes
Whether you're coding your first robot or designing smart cities, ThinkerBox guides you every step of the way.
Our Learning Pathway:
ThinkerBox offers a clear, step-by-step journey from beginner to advanced tech skills. Students start with playful robotics (VEX, mBot, LEGO), progress to coding and IoT projects (Python, Blockly), and advance to real-world engineering with Freenove ESP32 kits. Our flagship ARiS Explorer system, coming soon, caps the journey—empowering learners to build, code, and innovate with confidence.
Hands-on Play & Exploration
Young learners dive into robotics using VEX IQ, mBot 2, and LEGO Spike kits—building simple bots and exploring basic coding through playful challenges.Discover (Ages 6–8)
Robotics Foundations & Problem
Solving Learners expand their skills with VEX IQ & VEX EXP, adding sensors, motors, and using Blockly coding to complete real-world challenges—developing stronger problem-solving and collaboration skills.Build (Ages 8–10)
Programming Foundations
Students dive into Python programming and tackle more advanced robotics with mBot 2, VEX EXP, and VEX V5. They explore automation, logic control, and lay the groundwork for AI and IoT by coding smart behaviors and interactive projects.Code (Ages 10–12)
IoT & Smart City Engineering
Using the ARiS IoT platform + LEGO City Creator, students design smart cities with programmable streetlights, sensors, and traffic systems. They build their first real-world IoT applications—blending robotics with environmental data and automation..Innovate (Ages 12–14)
Advanced Robotics, AI & Game Programming
Solving Learners step up with Freenove ESP32 kits and Turbo Pi (Raspberry Pi), mastering Arduino C, Python, and MicroPython. They develop AI/ML models, computer vision systems, and smart IoT projects. PLUS, they explore game programming using Unity, learning 3D design, interactive gameplay, and real-time simulations—bridging robotics, AI, and gaming for a complete tech experience.Engineer (Ages 14+ / Gifted Track)
Capstone: Robotics, AI & Augmented Reality
The ultimate track combines the ARiS Explorer kit with Turbo Pi and Raspberry Pi to build advanced robotics solutions. Students tackle augmented reality (AR) overlays, deploy machine learning at the edge, and create smart city simulations. They also develop full game prototypes in Unity—preparing to lead in robotics, AI, and immersive digital experiences.Lead (All Ages / Advanced)
Beyond the Classroom: ThinkerBox for Colleges
Whether you're leading a STEM club, capstone team, or startup incubator, ThinkerBox provides the tools, mentorship, and pathways to turn innovative ideas into impact. Join our network of future engineers, AI specialists, and entrepreneurs blazing trails in tech and business.
Our Success
In 2024, we achieved remarkable milestones, including completing a successful robotics pilot program with Ruth Murdoch Academy in Berrien Springs, MI, competing as finalists in NASA MITTIC Space2Pitch after surpassing hundreds of teams, and advancing the Virtual Artisan Market (VAM) to empower low-income artisans globally. These accomplishments reflect our commitment to innovation, education, and creating meaningful impact in the communities we serve.
NASA MITTIC Finalists: Triumphing Against the Odds
Our NASA MITTIC Space2Pitch team achieved an extraordinary milestone by surpassing hundreds of teams to secure a spot in the finals. This incredible accomplishment highlights our innovative spirit, dedication, and ability to compete at the highest level on a national stage, demonstrating the power of creativity and teamwork in solving real-world challenges.
Robotics Pilot Success: Inspiring Innovation at Ruth Murdoch Elementary
Our robotics pilot program in Spring 2024 at Ruth Murdoch Elementary in Berrien Springs, MI, successfully introduced students to hands-on STEM learning. Through engaging activities and innovative tools, students explored robotics, coding, and problem-solving, sparking curiosity and fostering a passion for technology.
Partnering for Innovation: Our Collaboration with Robobloq
We proudly partnered with Robobloq as our first vendor, bringing cutting-edge robotics kits and tools to our programs. This collaboration enables us to deliver high-quality, hands-on STEM experiences that inspire creativity and innovation in students of all ages.
Team Hint of Michigan
Our team, Hint of Michigan, proudly captured 3rd place at both the Andrews University Innovation Competition and the HYVE 2025 Pitch Competition. Their innovative concept connects Michigan’s small backyard producers to the national market through curated subscription boxes—bringing local flavors to a wider audience.
Empowering Young Innovators: Qoopers at Ruth Murdoch Elementary
In 2025, we continued our partnership with Ruth Murdoch Elementary, supporting their technology classes through our Qoopers robotics platform—empowering young students to explore coding, engineering, and problem-solving in hands-on ways.
Securing 2025 Grant to Expand Homeschool STEM Access
In 2025, ThinkerBox secured new grant funding to expand access to our robotics and STEM programs for the homeschool community—ensuring that families have affordable tools, curriculum, and support to bring hands-on learning into their homes.