It’s one thing to say you want to help develop the next generation of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics leaders. It’s another thing to build out a facility to help cultivate it.
LG Electronics USA did just that.
On Tuesday in Englewood Cliffs, LG officially cut the ribbon on the LG Exploratorium, a new high-tech immersive learning space for area schoolchildren that promotes STEAM and environmental education while giving students the opportunity to interact with robotics, artificial intelligence and other technologies for kids in grades K-8.
LG officials said the Exploratorium aims to inspire new generations of students to pursue careers in STEAM fields and serve as a destination for class field trips and immersive, enhanced learning experiences for students.
Exhibits include an artificially intelligent robot artist, interactive digital seascape, electric vehicle drive simulator and more. LG has partnered with Discovery Education to develop age-appropriate curriculum for grades K-8 that aligns with the state’s rigorous standards.
LG Electronics North America CEO Thomas Yoon was thrilled to open the facility.
“The LG Exploratorium is a fun, interactive, hands-on educational space for elementary and middle school-aged students to visit and learn how innovation can be used to impact people’s lives, improve productivity and protect the environment,” he said.
“The LG Exploratorium represents an investment in our social and economic future, and, when we invest in our communities, we create a stronger society for everyone.”
Amy Nakamoto, general manager of social impact at Discovery Education, said her company was thrilled to collaborate.
“Our mission at Discovery Education is to prepare learners for tomorrow by creating innovative classrooms connected to today’s world,” she said. “The LG Exploratorium aligns with this mission by allowing students to engage with technology while exploring STEAM-related career paths.
“Together, we designed engaging resources for K-8 students that enhance enrichment and integrate the hands-on Exploratorium experiences into what they are studying in the classroom. We are excited to what possibilities this opens up for students.”
LG officials feel the Exploratorium is another example of the company’s continued commitment to the community and the region. Visitors are welcomed to the LG Exploratorium by compelling, interactive video content shown on advanced commercial displays from LG Business Solutions, including curved open-frame OLED displays and touch-screen digital signage displays.
Gov. Phil Murphy said the impact of the building could be huge.
“The LG Exploratorium will contribute immensely to New Jersey’s economic and education landscapes and inspire innovation among young New Jerseyans,” he said. “As we respond to a host of formidable challenges, both today and in the future, it’s crucial that we equip the next generation of New Jersey leaders with the skills they require to build a stronger and more prosperous Garden State.”
And do it at a place that more than talks the talk.
The 350,000-square-foot, $300 million campus, which had a pandemic opening in 2020, was designed to preserve the scenic views of the New Jersey Palisades and earned the highest-level LEED Platinum certification for its sustainability, efficiency and lower carbon footprint.