Pre-Conference Workshop · Play Make Learn 2026

STEAM and Making MiniCon

An all-day gathering for maker educators & STEAM leaders

Date & Time
July 8, 2026
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Lunch included
Location
Oregon Public Library
200 N Alpine Pkwy
Oregon, WI 53575

Experienced and emerging maker educators, along with STEM/STEAM leaders from schools, libraries, museums, and community spaces, will gather for a hands-on deep dive into maker-centered learning.

Together, we'll:

  • Test-drive engaging maker activities and explore how they can spark curiosity and creativity
  • Swap ideas, strategies, and practical tips for designing and supporting meaningful maker experiences
  • Tackle big-picture questions about how making connects to our organizations, communities, and educational goals

Participants will walk away with:

  • Fresh ideas and inspiration to energize their maker practice
  • Actionable approaches for launching or strengthening maker-based learning
  • A small but mighty network of co-conspirators ready to collaborate and champion this work

You do not need to attend the full Play Make Learn Conference to attend the MiniCon.

Need a ride? We will be organizing carpools from campus for those attending Play Make Learn and staying in a conference hotel. Please email Peter Wardrip for more information.

Facilitators

Kevin Anderson
Dept. of Public Instruction
Amy Bires
Dept. of Public Instruction
Peter Kirschmann
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Rebecca Millerjohn
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Monica Treptow
Dept. of Public Instruction
Peter Wardrip
University of Wisconsin–Madison
UW School of Education Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction