Our
Story
Get to Know Me
Andy Bruening is a STEM innovation leader who designs hands-on learning experiences that connect K–12 students directly to real-world science and engineering careers. With a Ph.D. in Geology and over two decades of experience spanning classrooms, universities, and nonprofit leadership, Andy has built integrated STEM programs, makerspaces, and robotics pathways that serve diverse learners across Ohio and beyond. As Chief Innovation Officer at the PAST Foundation, Andy lead the development of industry-recognized credentials in fabrication and design, embedded systems, and advanced digital fabrication, along with the Portable Innovation Labs that bring fully equipped STEM labs to schools and communities at no cost. Andy’s work is grounded in design thinking, digital fabrication, and authentic problem-based learning, informed by partnerships with organizations such as Battelle, The Ohio State University, FIRST Robotics, MATE ROV, NOAA, and statewide STEM networks.
Services
Let me help you empower your students through making!
Makerspace and fab lab consulting
- Plan, equip, and launch school or community makerspaces/fabrication labs, including safety, staffing, scheduling, and sustainability models.
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Develop and align credential-bearing courses like your fabrication and embedded systems pathways to state/industry standards.
Robotics and competition-based learning
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Help schools, nonprofits, and regions stand up or scale FIRST, MATE, and other robotics programs (coach training, competition strategy, integration into classes).
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Design “robotics as curriculum” models that justify funding and show measurable outcomes.
STEM program
design for K–12
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Design or revamp STEM academies, career pathways, and project-based curricula for districts, STEM schools, and charters.
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Special focus on integrating robotics, engineering design, and authentic research experiences tied to workforce skills.
Upcoming Events
Services
Discover Us
Digital Fab Co seamlessly merges Fab Labs into school environments in Central Ohio.
Our extensive experience in education and robotics enhances learning.
