KAWARTHA LAKES-After more than a decade of co-designing and delivering science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) education, Pinnguaq’s name is changing.
Pinnguaq is now Ampere.
“Our mandate and reach has evolved over the last decade, and with it, our identity must as well,” says Ryan Oliver, Ampere’s CEO and Founder. “We now offer STEAM programs for youth and adults, businesses and job seekers, educators, funders and social change organisations from coast to coast to coast. It’s been an incredible growth journey from Pangnirtung to a truly National organization.”
Officials say the name Ampere is rooted in the organization’s Lifecycle and its approach to the complex problem of equitable access to STEAM education, resources and opportunities in rural, remote and Indigenous communities. It’s an acronym made from the Lifecycle’s six elements – Advocacy, Mentorship, Production, Education, Resources and Employment.
“Sustainable impact can’t be achieved through a ‘one and done’ approach,” explains Oliver. “Our lifecycle guides all of our programming and ensures we’re there to boost rural, remote and Indigenous communities with meaningful, community-led opportunities for every age and every stage of life. Centering the lifecycle in our name centres our mission and commitment to our work.” An Ampere, or Amp for short, is also a unit of measurement for electric current – for power, and that concept is key to the organization’s work. “We live in a STEAM-powered world,” says Oliver. “Access to STEAM knowledge and resources gives people the power to connect, create, learn and earn, and to understand the world around them”. Over the last decade, the organization has worked with hundreds of communities and partners to deliver tens of thousands of hours of STEAM education and learning experiences in every province and territory. It is launching a new 4,500 square foot Makerspace in Lindsay, Ontario, in addition to its Iqaluit Makerspace and 15 others that it “powers” across Canada.
Ampere also will soon be getting a new home in Lindsay. Renovations continue on the 12 Peel Street location in Lindsay. Read more here: https://www.kawartha411.ca/2023/11/21/breaking-ground-at-lindsays-new-steam-hub/
