About Us
We want to engage our youth in STEM based activities and support their learning through organization of events,
such as the STEM Fest.
Our Story
With the support of family and friends, Washington STEAMworks Inc was founded in 2021 by Christine Coyle as a way to support the growth and learning of our local residents. Washington STEAMworks, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was created with the intent to become a fixture in the region, and we are always looking for opportunities to further engage with the community. There are five individuals on our board, who are fully invested in the mission, growth and development of the organization.
Our goal is to provide educational experiences for the residents in our region that promote creative thinking and a love of learning, in addition to supporting current and future workforces through technology education. Washington STEAMworks is powered by a group of individuals who are passionate about providing hands-on learning experiences and cultivating creative spirits.
Our Mission
Our mission is to enrich the community through educational, STEM-based experiences.
Lifelong Learning
Community
Hands-on Learning
Access to Educational Enrichment
The Team
Christine Coyle - Founder & President
Christine founded Washington STEAMworks Inc in 2021. She earned her PhD in Genetics and Developmental Biology from West Virginia University and her MEd in Secondary Education from Carlow University. Christine is currently the High School STEM Teacher in the Bentworth School District.
Robert A. Urso - Vice President
Robert Urso is a retired Information Systems professional. His career spanned many business platforms including manufacturing, consumer products, finance, airline flight operations, corporate management systems, and business ethics. He retired as VP - Chief Information Officer from Washington Penn, an Audia ® Company.
Andrew Coyle - Treasurer
Andrew earned his Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from the University of Maryland Baltimore County. He has embarked on a fulfilling journey in the realm of technology and currently serves as the Software Engineering Manager at a local company. Andrew provides technical expertise to Washington STEAMworks, while also serving as our Business Manager and Treasurer.
Cheryl Putnam - Secretary
Cheryl Putnam is a civil engineer and currently works at KCI Technologies, Inc. as a senior project bridge engineer in the Pittsburgh area. Cheryl has 30 years’ experience as a structural engineer and has mentored two middle school STEM competition teams: MathCounts at John F. Kennedy Catholic School and First Lego League in the City of Washington, PA. She resides in Washington County with her husband and two daughters.
Robert Johns - Board Member
Bob was a business owner in the Washington Business District for 40 years. He is active in the Washington community, which includes his continued involvement in the SWPA STEM Fest.
Rebecca Papson- Committee Member and Teacher
Rebecca Papson was a middle school science teacher at John F Kennedy Catholic School for 41 years. Rebecca has been involved in Pennsylvania Junior Academy of School and has sponsored many students. She currently teaches in our STEAM program and is a STEM Fest volunteer.
Gary Bissonnette - Committee Member
Gary Bissonnette was a research scientist and instructor in environmental microbiology for 40+ years at West Virginia University. He has been a SWPA STEM Fest volunteer and has participated in STEAM programs for several years.