The Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab in Sarasota has officially opened registration for its 2026 summer programs, offering more than 35 weeklong STEAM camp sessions for rising 2nd through 8th grade students. The popular Sarasota program is also launching an exciting new Skill Lab Trade Series designed specifically for high school students entering grades 9–12.
Summer STEAM Camps for Rising 2nd–8th Grade Students
Fab Lab’s hands-on summer camps are designed to spark creativity and curiosity by blending science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) through interactive projects and collaborative challenges.
Throughout the summer, campers will have the opportunity to design, experiment, and solve real-world problems while exploring topics such as:
- Engineering and invention
- Artificial intelligence
- Food science
- Environmental science
- Movie special effects and animation
Many of the camps incorporate the Fab Lab’s state-of-the-art makerspace, where students gain hands-on experience using tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, and woodworking equipment.
One of the most unique aspects of the program is its leadership model. Many camps are designed and led by talented high school students who participate in the Fab Lab’s Student Planning & Education Committee (SPEC). These near-peer mentors help create an engaging and supportive learning environment while inspiring younger students.
The weeklong camps run Monday through Friday throughout June and July, with both morning and afternoon sessions available.
- Cost: $300–$325 per week
- Includes: All materials and a custom camp T-shirt
Families can explore the full camp schedule and register online at: suncoastscience.org/camps
New Skill Lab Trade Series for High School Students
New for 2026, the Fab Lab is launching Skill Lab: Trade Series, a hands-on summer workshop program designed for rising 9th–12th grade students interested in developing practical fabrication and trade skills.
Each three-day workshop focuses on a specific craft or technical discipline, giving students the opportunity to work with professional tools while creating a project they can take home. Current sessions include:
- Woodworking
- Metalworking
- Electronics
- Leatherworking
Workshops are structured in small-group cohorts to ensure personalized instruction and meaningful hands-on experience.
Each session includes 12 hours of instruction and runs:
- Friday & Saturday: 2–6 p.m.
- Sunday: 1–5 p.m.
The Trade Series represents the first phase of the Skill Lab program, with future workshops expected to expand into emerging fields such as robotics and artificial intelligence.
- Cost: $175 per session
- Includes: All materials and project supplies
Students and parents can view the workshop schedule and register at: suncoastscience.org/skill-lab
With its innovative programs and hands-on learning approach, the Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab continues to inspire the next generation of creators, engineers, and innovators across the Sarasota region.