Thrive
SPHA to launch Gulf Futures 3D project
The initiative will bring 3D technology and immersive learning experiences to local youth.
Leaders at the St. Petersburg Housing Authority believe that young people can become problem solvers in their neighborhoods, if given the right tools.
The organization’s latest initiative, the Gulf Futures 3D project, is focused on introducing 3D technology and immersive learning experiences to youth living in SPHA communities. Currently in development, it will launch tentatively in January.
The goal is to collaborate with local schools as well as host after school programs.
“We work primarily in underserved communities where opportunities are not plentiful,” said SPHA director of social services Kiara Lovett. “Technology is changing and society is changing as a whole, and we want to bring opportunities to our kids to learn 3D printing and explore career pathways in the science industry.”
This, she added, will help create generational wealth and community resilience.
A $740,860 three-year grant from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine’s Gulf Research Program will fund the effort. SPHA hopes to impact 250 young people per year.
To encourage scientific exploration, SPHA will create a mobile technology lab. It will feature 3D printers, virtual reality headsets and 3D scanners. “The goal is to bring the classroom out into the community,” Lovett said.
SPHA will also install 3D printers at its Jordan Park community.
Students will use these technologies to discuss solutions for local socio-environmental issues. They will work on projects in various environments, including parks, beaches and waterways.
While the specific projects are still being designed, Lovett said that students can expect to build mock items such as oysters and coral reefs and work in SPHA’s Jordan Park Community Garden.
These projects will be collaborations with community partners, including the James B. Sanderlin Neighborhood Family Center, St. Petersburg College and Tampa Bay Watch.
Additionally, participants will get to work with mentors, such as biologists and architects, to learn more about career pathways. Some students will also have the opportunity to receive a 3D modeling certification from software company, SelfCAD.
A grant evaluation and research team has been organized for the project, Lovett said. Members will speak with the young participants, document milestones and monitor the impact of the initiative.
The Gulf Research Program, founded in 2013, was created as part of the legal settlements relating to the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
