Science Mill Competitors

One of the world's largest science centers and New England’s most attended cultural institution, the Museum of Science, Boston introduces 1.5 million visitors a year to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) via dynamic programs and hundreds of interactive exhibits. The Museum of Science carries out its mission as a leader in transforming the nation’s relationship with science and technology through world-class exhibits, industry-leading curriculum, and innovative programming. As science and technology shapes our lives, it means we: • Promote active citizenship • Inspire lifelong appreciation of the importance of science • Make STEM accessible to young people of all backgrounds and abilities These principles manifest every day in all we do within the Museum walls as well as around the world, as a steward of our community, as informal and formal educators, and as advocates for scientific advancement. Since its founding in 1830, the Museum of Science has been at the cutting edge of scientific study and education. Today it has become an iconic symbol of the city’s long cultural and technological history – and future. Within its ¾ mile long building, the Museum of Science includes: • 10,000 square foot Hall of Human Life, allowing visitors to explore how they engage with their own bodies • Thomson Theater of Electricity, home to the world’s largest Van de Graaf generator which makes indoor lightning • Charles Hayden Planetarium, the most technologically advanced theater in New England • Mugar Omni Theater, New England’s only dome IMAX screen • Award-winning pre-K – 8 engineering curriculum, EiE, reaching 1.3 million students each year As a leader in the world’s museum community, we use our role as educator and communicator to bring diverse communities together to learn, share, and consider our collective role in the future of our planet.

The Exploratorium is the global leader in informal learning, designed to ignite curiosity and inspire creativity in people of all ages. The world-renowned science museum creates original, interactive exhibits, on display at more than 1,000 science centers, museums and public spaces around the world. Dedicated to education reform in and out of the classroom, the Exploratorium is a premier professional development center for educators and a creator of award-winning educational resources. Since 1969, the Exploratorium has influenced generations of entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, teachers, students, children, museum professionals and everyday doers, reaching nearly 200 million people annually from around the globe. In the spring of 2013, the Exploratorium will move to Pier 15 in the heart of San Francisco's waterfront district, where it will celebrate a new era of experiences that encourage critical thinking and awaken wonder for generations to come. Founded in 1969 by Dr. Frank Oppenheimer, our mission is to create a culture of learning through innovative environments, programs, and tools that help people nurture their understanding about the world around them. We believe that following your curiosity and asking questions can lead to amazing moments of discovery, learning, and awareness, and can increase confidence in your ability to understand how the world works. We also believe that being playful and having fun is an important part of the process for people of all ages.

The Tech is a mission driven organization that develops the next generation of problem-solvers locally, nationally and globally, through the creation and distribution of world-class immersive STEAM education resources. We believe that everyone is born an innovator who can change the world for the better. The Tech draws its strength from its location at the center of Silicon Valley: from its founding and leadership, its mission and operating philosophy, its commitment to innovation and making a difference in the lives of young people. The Tech is truly a community resource that gives back to and draws power from the inspiring ecosystem it calls home. The Tech Interactive is a world class science and technology center in the heart of the Silicon Valley that welcomes over 250,000 visitors a year. Visitors are encouraged to explore the 130,000 square feet of hands-on activities, exploratory labs and design challenge experiences as well as interactive exhibits on climate change, robotics, innovations in healthcare, cybersecurity and more. The center is also home to the largest dome IMAX theater on the West Coast, offering educational films and the occasional Hollywood blockbuster. The Tech Challenge is the 35-year-old signature program of The Tech that invites teams of students in Grades 4-12 to use the engineering design process to solve a real-world problem. The Tech Academy is a dedicated professional development program for teachers to bring STEM curricula into classrooms throughout the Bay Area. The Tech For Global Good (formally the Tech Awards) have focused on inspiring problem solvers to tackle the planet’s toughest challenges, like climate change, clean water and access to health care. To support The Tech is to support an organization that is profoundly deepening its impact in Silicon Valley.