Our Learner-to-Leader Pathway is the foundation that connects all of Invent the Summer’s programs. It supports students as they grow from curious creators into confident mentors, designers, and community leaders. Each stage builds on the one before it, offering real-world opportunities to develop creativity, communication, and leadership skills.
The Pathway at a Glance
Invent the Summer grows alongside kids. Whether students are just beginning to explore hands-on challenges or stepping into advanced leadership roles, each stage supports confidence, creativity, and the ability to guide others.
This pathway is the thread that runs through all of our programs. Students are not just participating. They’re designing, teaching, leading, and becoming the role models they once looked up to.
Challenge Participants
Ages 12 & Under
Junior Board of Engineers
Ages 13-15
Senior Board of Engineers
Ages 16-18
Workshop Leaders
Young Adults
Growing as Leaders
Challenge
Participants
Ages 12 & Under
Participants begin their journey by exploring challenges designed to spark curiosity and confidence.
Through this stage kids:
- imagine, design, and build using simple materials
- practice problem solving and perseverance
- develop early STEM confidence and identity
Junior
Board of Engineers
Ages 13-15
As participants grow older, some take the next step by joining the Junior Board of Engineers.
In this role, they:
- shift from participants to collaborators
- design, test, and present challenges
- build confidence in teamwork and responsibility
Senior
Board of Engineers
Ages 16-18
Senior Board members step into active leadership roles that help shape the program.
At this stage, teens:
- mentor Jr Board members
- support workshops and community events
- strengthen communication, collaboration, and decision-making skills
The Next Step
Workshop Leaders
Young Adults
Workshop Leaders represent the next evolution of the pathway.
Often alumni of the program, these young adults lead in-person workshops, mentor youth participants, and take on meaningful teaching and leadership responsibilities. For many, this is their first paid opportunity to apply their skills in an educational setting.
This role reinforces the idea that Invent the Summer does not end with participation. It grows, evolves, and creates opportunities to give back.
The Power of the Pathway
The Learner-to-Leader Pathway ensures every child can participate at their own pace, explore creative interests, develop leadership and communication skills, and see themselves as capable creators.
This is now confidence grows. This is how community grows.
This is how leaders grow.
Ways to Engage With Invent the Summer
Families, volunteers, organizations, and funders engage with our programs in different ways as part of our year-round mission.
Families
Invite your child to explore creativity, build skills, and find their place within our Learner-to-Leader pathway.
Volunteers
Help guide our youth leaders and assist with year-round creative and operational projects.
Funders
Invest in a program that builds confidence, creativity, and leadership from childhood through young adulthood.
Organizations
Bring hands-on workshops, youth mentors, and creative STEM programming to your community.