About STEM Punks
STEM Punks, based in Samford, is a team of award-winning educators and engineers dedicated to developing and delivering innovative STEM education programs worldwide. With a focus on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT), STEM Punks is committed to equipping the next generation with the skills needed for the jobs of the future.
STEM Punks believes that STEM education is for everyone. Their programs are designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that children of all backgrounds—regardless of gender, location, or circumstances—can engage with and benefit from STEM learning.
From humble beginnings in a Samford garage, STEM Punks has grown into an internationally recognized leader in STEM education, inspiring young minds globally to explore and excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Project Showcase
Sponsored by the Orica Impact Fund in collaboration with GroundProbe, STEM Punks delivered the 2024 Sustainable Innovation Challenge, which has so far engaged over 400 students and nearly 100 teachers across remote areas of Chile, Peru, and Colombia, with the goal of reaching 5,000 students in these areas.
The program used innovative STEM education practices, focusing on real-world problem-solving aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Participants worked with tools like environmental sensors and robotics to develop skills in design thinking, coding, and collaborative innovation.
This project, which will be expanding into Brazil in 2025, highlights STEM Punks commitment to making STEM accessible to all children, no matter where they are in the world.
Why Moreton Bay?
Fiona Holmstrom, Co-Founder of STEM Punks, recognises Moreton Bay as an ideal place to do business, with tremendous long-term potential. Being based in Samford, she sees firsthand the advantages that the region offers for growth and innovation.
In addition to the benefits of geographic location, Fiona highlights City of Moreton Bay’s vibrant community of entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders in Moreton Bay as one of the area’s major strengths.
This collaborative environment fosters creativity and progress, something which Fiona notes is strongly supported by the City of Moreton Bay. As she explains, Council’s proactive approach, particularly through its Regional Innovation and Development Strategy (REDS), is pivotal in driving the future of the area through the advancement of knowledge and innovation.
Advice for Others
For other entrepreneurs and founders, Fiona’s advice is to forge strong connections, engage with the innovation ecosystem and to reach out for assistance and advice when you need to.
“Surround yourself with awesome people in the community and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”
Case Study Series
Our case studies series is showcasing businesses across City of Moreton which are doing innovative things aligned with the Innovate Moreton Bay program.
Get involved by subscribing to our monthly newsletter, visiting our website and attending events like our monthly social catchups, where you can meet other innovators in our collaborative #TeamMoretonBay network.