We had an awesome summer! Here's what happened and what's up next:

SUMMER CAMP We wrapped up 8 weeks of camp where kids 3D printed, coded, wired, laser cut, filmed, and edited tons of cool projects. Feedback was incredible—families re-enrolled, recruited friends, and gave us glowing reviews. Huge thanks to UTD engineering and Highland Park High School volunteers, plus our champions who donated their time, talent, and treasure.

WEATHER BALLOON PROJECT After seeing the devastating Texas floods, our crewmembers committed to helping close gaps in weather balloon data collection. They’ll design and deploy flat-packed balloons to camps across central Texas, paired with instructional videos so campers can launch them. The data will feed meteorological models to help predict severe weather. We’ve lined up extraordinary mentors, applied for a $7,500 grant, and are seeking more support—contact Shirin if you’d like to help.

CREWMEMBER ONBOARDING Applications are rolling in and we’ve started onboarding amazing kids. If you know a responsible, gifted student (6th grade+, 11+ years old), let their parents know about Launchpad—we’re building a community of world-changers.

UPCOMING EVENT Labor Day weekend, we’re hosting three 1-day make-it-take-it events (offered Saturday–Monday). Kids will design and laser cut a custom pencil box, and time permitting, engrave pencils. Details below!