The Fannin County Recreation Department officially opened its Cal Ripkin Sr. STEM Center March 12 in hopes to give children the chance to explore, create, and discover new interest in science, technology, engineering and math.
“We’re just grateful for everyone who has made this center a reality,” said department education coordinator Jade Graham. “It’s going to be so impactful in this community.” She added she cant wait to see the curiosity and them playing and learning and doing.
The STEM center is one of over 40 centers around the United States dedicated to give students the opportunity ask questions, try new things and learn how the real world works through experimenting, building, and problem solving.”These experiences last a lifetime,” said Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) representative Kayleigh Heaton.
“This ribbon cutting represents more than just a new facility and new chairs, it represents opportunities for these kids and for the families who come in these doors every day,” Heaton said.
The STEM center is a collaboration of TVA and the Cal Ripkin Sr. Foundation, which began in 2023, to provide students with hand’s on learning opportunities in robotics, engineering, coding and other STEM disciplines.
“Exposing them to career opportunities and technologies they may not have had in the past. You can’t become what you don’t know,” TVA spokesman Scott Fielder said. He said 1,000,000 high demand skilled workers positions open today and this program will help fill those jobs in the future.
Fannin County Recreation Department Director Eddie O’Neal said help from grants from TVA and Tri-State and everybody, it’s what’s made this possible.
“This is a great opportunity here. It’s a community effort,” he said. “STEM allows people to pick things they are interested in. Not just go to class, but find something that you enjoy.”
Tri-State EMC IT manager David Lewis said having this center in a small community is special. “So many do not.’ He added that Tri-State is proud to be a part of something that will inspire future generations.
Hope Inglehart, North Georgia Outreach Coordinator for United States Senator John Ossoff, said investments like this demonstrate what is possible when community organizations, public partners and educators work together with a shared commitment to the next generation. “The future of our community and economy depend on preparing young people with skills, confidence and creativity to succeed in a rapidly changing world.”