Learning Through Exploration
At STEAMboat Studio, we have a deep passion for bringing learning to life and making it fun for students of all ages! We believe in fostering a love for learning through our engaging STEAM classes, day camps, and workshops that stimulates young minds to discover and create.
If your young scientist, engineer, or artist loves to tinker, construct, invent, or create, then STEAMboat Studio is the place for them. At STEAMboat Studio, children can explore the fields of art, science, engineering, and technology in a way that matches their learning style best, by engaging in experiential learning.
Combining Science With Creativity
Research has shown that combining science with creativity in small groups helps kids understand, retain, and engage with scientific concepts. By blending STEAM concepts with fun, hands-on activities, we make learning fun for kids.
Our approach ensures that children develop a positive association with learning, which they carry with them throughout their education and future careers. We believe that igniting a love for learning early on is crucial for the academic and professional success of our students.
Science shouldn't be a far-off, complicated topic for children. Through our STEAM classes for kids, we make science approachable and fun!
Meet the STEAMboat Studio Team
Kathy Gendreau
Owner, Instructor
Kathy founded STEAMboat Studio in 2014, combining her love of art and her passion for STEM to bring fun, hands-on, STEAM-focused learning experiences to students of all ages.
Kathy has a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and has been working with children and teens for over 20 years. She has brought STEAM programs to thousands of children through in-person classes, online lessons, educational videos, and classroom curricula.
Kathy is an avid photographer, and when she is not wearing one of her many hats at STEAMboat Studio, you’ll find her with her camera in hand, enjoying one of the local trails with her husband.
Casey Vreeken
STEAM Academy Instructor, Director of Educational Programs and Business Development
Casey has a Bachelor’s degree in general science and elementary education from Western Washington University. The opportunity to spend a summer volunteering at the Seattle Aquarium and inspire kids to get excited about the wonder of nature and our environment prompted her to pursue science education as a career.
She taught 6th grade science and math in the Tahoma School District, was a substitute teacher for many years, and tutored all ages in Math. Casey’s favorite part of science is how it helps students connect with the world around them and inspires them to be observant, ask questions, and overcome challenges.
When not working, she can be found enjoying the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her family, reading, sewing, or planning her next vacation.
Laurie Stamp
Instructor, Studio Manager
Laurie has a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University, where she was named Student Teacher of the Year. She also has a Masters degree in Education with a focus on Gifted Education from Arizona State University. She worked as a teacher for 7 years, working with learners from 5th grade all the way through college.
Laurie is passionate about teaching and making content easy for everyone to understand. She believes that learning happens best through hands-on experience.
Outside of work, Laurie enjoys being outside with her dog or exploring new restaurants. You can also find her singing, painting, knitting, or learning something new. Laurie believes that learning is lifelong and that there is something to be learned from everyone that crosses her path.
Heidi DuPuis
STEAM Academy Instructor
Heidi has a Bachelor’s Degree in Education for middle school science, and a Master’s in Education with an emphasis in high school physics. Her first experience in science education was running the science fair during the years her boys were in elementary school.
She taught middle school science for a local homeschool co-op for 3 years and loves helping kids of all ages make discoveries about how the world around them works. She also believes that learning through hands-on activities is the best way to explore those answers.
When the opportunity came to help create and teach the STEAM Academy program, it was a perfect match. When she is not busy with science, she can be found making music, cooking, or occasionally relaxing with family for a game night.
Aysha Rizk
Executive Assistant
Aysha has a Bachelor's degree in Business Management Human Resources. She's always had a passion for the world of small businesses and loves exploring their intricacies and behind-the-scenes details. She genuinely believes in the power of education and loves how exploration can encourage learning. When she's not diving into administrative adventures, you can find Aysha strolling along picturesque paths on sunny days, soaking up the warmth and beauty of nature.
Melissa Orstad
Marketing and Social Media Manager
Melissa has a Bachelor’s Degree in Strategic Communications from Washington State University. She first started working for STEAMboat Studio in 2017 as a program helper, where she really enjoyed working with the kids and teaching them new things. In her role now she loves being able to promote and bring awareness to the mission of STEAMboat Studio. Outside of work you can find her spending time with family and friends, and occasionally reading a good book!
Join Us for a STEAM Class
With hands-on activities designed to engage even the most hesitant learners, we leverage students' innate curiosity to cultivate a lifelong passion for learning. STEAMboat Studio is here to share the love of science and learning with the child in your life. Check out our wide range of classes and homeschool programs.
