Garner Holt Education Through Imagination: Igniting STEAM Learning Through Animatronics
Introduction
Garner Holt, a name synonymous with animatronic artistry, has been designing and creating captivating characters for Disney theme parks for nearly half a century. From the Hall of Presidents to Pirates of the Caribbean, Holt and his team at Garner Holt Productions (GHP) have brought classic tales to life. Now, Holt aims to inspire the next generation of creators, engineers, and manufacturers through "Garner Holt Education Through Imagination," a program designed to ignite STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) learning in young people.
Garner Holt Education Through Imagination: A Hands-On Approach
Garner Holt Education Through Imagination is an interactive, hands-on learning experience designed to engage young people in creative design and manufacturing, focusing on STEAM principles. The program, based at Garner Holt Productions headquarters in Redlands, California, aims to capture the excitement around robotics and animatronics, preparing students for the future workplace where they will likely interact with robotics.
Holt's inspiration for the program stems from his own educational experiences and a desire to fill the gap left by the decline of shop classes in schools. "Everything I know started there," Holt says, referring to his experiences in metal shop, wood shop, drafting, and sculpting. The program introduces students to art and technology and exposes them to around 30 different career paths.
The AniMakerspace: Where Art and Technology Meet
At the heart of Garner Holt Education Through Imagination is the AniMakerspace, a state-of-the-art learning environment that combines animatronics with STEAM education. This space allows students to use their heads, hands, and hearts in learning, fostering 21st-century skills and preparing them for the demands of the modern workforce.
The AniMakerspace is designed to get students excited about coming to school. Schools are recognizing that this program is a perfect match for their educational goals, offering a unique and engaging way to inspire students.
Read also: Read about Holt's educational philosophy
Field Trip Experiences: An Inside Look at Animatronics Production
Garner Holt Productions offers customizable in-person field trip options for schools, youth groups, and other educational organizations. These field trips provide a behind-the-scenes look at the animatronic production process, highlighting a wide range of careers across the creative industries.
Each field trip includes:
- An inspirational Garner Holt Productions history video
- An in-depth and behind-the-scenes guided tour of Garner Holt Productions
- Animatronic demonstrations
- One hands-on STEAM-based "Make and Take" activity
Available activity kit choices include:
- Robotics & Engineering
- Electrical Circuit Design
- Lifecasting & Moldmaking
- Sculpting the Human Head
- Figure Finishing
- Sewing
- Theme Park Effects
These activities emulate unique aspects of the animatronic production process, fostering 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration.
Garner Holt Productions: A Legacy of Innovation
Garner Holt Productions has grown from a small garage operation to a 120,000-sq.-ft. manufacturing plant and headquarters, with a 20,000-sq.-ft. educational building across the street. The company's relocation and expansion in 2018 allowed it to increase its headcount to around 85 employees.
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Holt's decision to launch the educational program was driven by a desire to inspire young people and share the excitement of animatronics with the next generation. He wants students to leave with a smile on their faces, just like he did the first time he visited Disneyland.
Expanding Educational Horizons: Other Initiatives in San Bernardino County
Garner Holt Education Through Imagination is not the only program in San Bernardino County focused on workforce development and education. The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Center at San Bernardino International Airport (SBD) is also working to equip local workers with the skills they need to succeed in the growing drone industry.
The UAS Center offers drone pilot training and an active internship program, partnering with area schools and Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. The center has trained hundreds of drone pilots since opening in July 2020, preparing them for careers in various industries, including logistics, public safety, and infrastructure inspection.
Loma Linda University Health: Training the Healthcare Workforce
Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) is another institution in San Bernardino County dedicated to workforce development. The academic medical center oversees eight schools and six hospitals, training future healthcare professionals and advancing medical therapies.
LLUH offers various educational programs, including pipeline programs for high school students to learn about health professions. The university also provides staff education and development, and adult learning opportunities.
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