About Us
We want to engage our youth in STEM-based activities and support their learning through the organization of events, such as the SWPA STEM Fest.
Our Mission
Our mission is to enrich the community through educational, STEM-based experiences.
We aim 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.
Lifelong Learning
Community
Hands-On Learning
Acess to Educational Enrichment
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.
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 Story
Our 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. She resides in the Washington area with her husband and two daughters.
Robert A. Urso
Vice President
Robert 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, and serves as Business Manager and Treasurer.
Cheryl Putnam
Secretary
Cheryl 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 & Teacher
Rebecca was a middle school science teacher at John F Kennedy Catholic School for 41 years. She 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 was a research scientist and instructor in environmental microbiology for 40+ years at West Virginia University. He has been a volunteer at the SWPA STEM Fest and has participated in STEAM programs for several years.
