The education software space is filled with plenty of choices for helping kids design and create. That's especially true in the CAD space, as programs like Tinkercad appeal to younger kids and Fusion/AutoCAD/OnShape & more are great for older students.

SelfCAD is a new software choice that combines the best of block/shape design from Tinkercad and the higher level design of traditional CAD software. SelfCAD doesn’t require months of training, nor is it limited to professional engineers and mathematicians. SelfCAD was designed with the goal of simplifying the user interface and the overall 3D design and printing process that is intuitive, easy to use and easy to learn, especially for beginners. SelfCAD believes that 3D CAD software, in addition to being intuitive and easy to use, should still include advanced tools for modeling, sculpting, and preparation for 3D printing, to ensure that the design process is as real-world and authentic as possible and presents no barriers to creativity.

SelfCAD is a professional-grade 3D modeling software platform, ideal for both beginners and advanced users, offering a robust set of tools for 3D modeling, sculpting, and rapid prototyping.

In terms of education, SelfCAD's mission is to address the skills gap in STEM education, specifically in 3D technology. They aim to empower educators worldwide to create engaging, technology-rich learning environments that prepare students for a future driven by creativity and innovation. SelfCAD even offers curriculum and training, career exploration and technology applications curriculum, and grant writing support for 3D technology grants (for printers, scanners, etc.)

Connect with Kara & SelfCAD:

• Website: selfcad.com
• YouTube: @selfcad
• Facebook: @selfcad
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/selfcad/

Chris Woods is the host of the STEM Everyday Podcast... Connect with him:

• Website: dailystem.com
• Twitter/X: @dailystem
• Instagram: @dailystem
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For more than 40 years, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF) has supported the brightest minds in STEM, with its Astronaut Scholars making groundbreaking contributions—from launching payloads into space to pioneering agricultural innovations and advancing congenital heart disease research. The prestigious Astronaut Scholarship is known nationwide for being among the largest merit-based monetary scholarships awarded to college level STEM juniors and seniors. ASF has a life-long relationship with each Astronaut Scholar and provides them with mentors, professional and personal development and opportunities to network with astronauts, C-suite level executives and industry leaders to help advance their careers.

Established in 1984 by six of the surviving Mercury 7 Astronauts along with Betty Grissom, William Douglas and Henri Landwirth, the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation has awarded over $10 million in scholarships to more than 850 students.

What makes this scholarship truly special is its mentorship component: every Astronaut Scholar is paired with a mentor who helps to guide their academic journey and professional growth. Now, former Astronaut Scholars who once benefited from this mentorship are paying it forward as mentors themselves.

Tomas Collado is a 2024 Astronaut Scholar and Mechanical Engineering major from Washington University in St. Louis. His mentor, Adero Paige, is a 2004 Astronaut Scholar Alum who also serves on ASF’s Board of Directors. Their stories illustrate the lasting impact of mentorship and the power of investing in the next generation of STEM leaders.

Connect with The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation:

• Website: astronautscholarship.org
• YouTube: @astroscholarfdn
• Instagram: @astronautscholarfdn
• Facebook: @AstroScholarFdn
• LinkedIn: astronaut-scholarship-foundation

Chris Woods is the host of the STEM Everyday Podcast... Connect with him:

• Website: dailystem.com
• Twitter/X: @dailystem
• Instagram: @dailystem
• YouTube: @dailystem

Get Chris's book Daily STEM on Amazon

Support the show

When so many coding resources are just digital, it's great to see new resources that combine hands-on learning with on-screen coding.

Codie Blocks is a learning tool that brings the foundations of coding to children ages 3 to 7. Through a unique storytelling component with hands-on, block-based coding, Codie Blocks makes complex concepts approachable, fun, and developmentally appropriate.

Featuring the Mia & Codie series as seen on PBS member stations, Codie Blocks introduces characters and scenarios that help children build their skills as they think through situations in their everyday lives. The new Codie Blocks Block Dock brings coding to life for young learners through hands-on, screen-enhanced play. Designed for classrooms and homes, the Block Dock integrates seamlessly with the Codie Blocks App, pairing with lesson plans, activities, and interactive storytelling for a complete coding experience.

Caroline Rosenbloom is a Curriculum/Brand Ambassador at Codie Blocks, as well as a successful Principal and Instructional Leader in Canada.

Connect with Codie Blocks:

• Website: codieblocks.com
• YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCYSMmfIRgixy7SPxkijZuZA
• Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570616856924

Chris Woods is the host of the STEM Everyday Podcast... Connect with him:

• Website: dailystem.com
• Twitter/X: @dailystem
• Instagram: @dailystem
• YouTube: @dailystem

Get Chris's book Daily STEM on Amazon

Support the show