Young Ingenuity Program

The Center for Transportation and Commerce, Galveston Railroad Museum, invites  all students with STEM interests to register for the Young Ingenuity Program. There is no fee to  participate in the Young Ingenuity Program. Registration is open year round. (409) 765-5700 

Designed to develop technical skills, foster literacy, and prepare young people for future careers, the  goal of the program is to increase access to trades and technology, promote problem-solving, provoke  innovation, and to enhance collaboration. Students ages thirteen and older are encouraged to contact us.  

The pilot program was initiated in 2022 when a student approached the museum about the possibility  of tackling the restoration of a train track signal that he saw sitting dormant on the railyard. Acting as  mentor, his father supervised the project, and the museum provided the materials and tools. The  signal was completely restored and placed in the train depot as an interactive display. Another project  soon followed and the museum adopted the educational outreach as the Young Ingenuity Program.  

In addition to students, mentors and volunteers are encouraged to share their skills through the  program. Projects are assigned based on the student’s interest and ability. The focus of the projects is  STEM based and the projects may range from signals to radios. The program helps build confidence in  using skills for educational, professional, and everyday purposes through firsthand experience, builds  critical thinking skills, and connects the student to career paths.  

Students may work on their project at the museum or at home at their own pace. There is no  competition or grading and brainstorming sessions are encouraged at scheduled meetings at the  museum. Materials and supplies are provided by the museum and completed projects become  permanent displays at the museum.  

Volunteers and mentors who would like to share their skills are asked to contact and meet with  museum staff to identify the best placement for their participation.  

The Young Ingenuity Program is an educational outreach project of the Galveston Railroad Museum  and is supported by grants and contributions. All information and donation opportunities are online at  www.GalvestonRRmuseum.org/education.  

Those interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) activities are  encouraged to participate. There are no fees and parking is complimentary. We ask that you consider becoming a museum member to enjoy year round and special event benefits. 

To learn more about the Young Ingenuity Program, become a mentor, museum volunteer, or donate to Educational Outreach call  (409) 765-5700.