Penn Showcases PLTW Pathways & Robotics at Ignition Park

Penn High School is putting its Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs and robotics front and center at a local STEM showcase hosted at the South Bend Technology Resource Center in Ignition Park. The event shines a spotlight on how area schools are using PLTW and robotics to connect students with real-world opportunities and local industry leaders.

Throughout the day, Penn students shared their work from four key PLTW areas: Engineering, Computer Science, Biomedical Science, and Robotics. From coded robots and engineered prototypes to biomedical investigations, visitors can see how Penn students are using hands-on projects to solve problems, think critically, and collaborate like professionals.

The showcase is also about what happens beyond the classroom. Local companies, community partners, and education leaders are using the event to explore new ways to support work-based learning (WBL), internships, and career-connected experiences for Penn students. By building these relationships, Penn is working to ensure that what students learn in PLTW courses ties directly to the skills needed in today’s workforce.

After students presented their individual booths, they got the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session, followed by a networking lunch with local industry leaders. Students finished out the day getting a tour of local businesses in Ignition Park.

Penn High School is expanding its College & Career Readiness course offerings for the 2026-2027 school year. Starting next school year there will be several new full-year courses and capstone experiences designed to connect students with high-demand career pathways. Click here to read more about these future courses.

Click here to access the photo gallery from the showcase.