GRAND OPENING: MAY the 4th!

Become a Crewmember

Launchpad Dallas knows what it's like to search for opportunities that match the pace and potential of a gifted child, and plans on filling that void by offering a unique space where your kids can:

Explore Freely

Gain supervised access to cutting-edge tools like 3D printers, CNC machines, and a fully equipped woodshop during after-school hours, weekends, and school breaks.

Learn from Peers

Participate in "Each One, Teach One" nights, where students lead workshops for their peers and mentors, building a community of shared knowledge.

Build Teams and Leadership

Collaborate on exciting team projects, from go-kart construction to hydroponic gardens, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Learn from Experts

Deepen their understanding of advanced STEAM topics (e.g., algebra, calculus, statistics, chemistry, and physics) in small-groups.

Compete and Excel

Showcase their talents at esteemed competitions like the Science Olympiad, VEX Robotics and the International Science & Engineering Fair.

Develop Holistically

Explore diverse interests with on-site lessons in piano, martial arts, and other areas that cultivate a well-rounded individual.

Membership and Admissions Criteria

We are scouring the Dallas area for the brainiest middle school aged kids we can find. Our application process isn't about weeding kids out: it's about getting to know them, understanding their unique strengths, and seeing how they can contribute to the Launchpad community. To apply:

Step 1: The parent/guardian, must submit this request for an application and give their child, the prospective crewmember, permission to apply. (We explain why in the Privacy Policies.)

Step 2: Wait for us to send the application (it may take a day or two).

Step 3: The prospective crewmember completes the application. They may need guardian's help with retrieving relevant academic records - but otherwise the prospective crewmember should complete the application on their own.

Step 4: The prospective crewmember must check email for a response or a request for more information. We will accept crewmembers on a rolling basis, but it may take a few weeks.

Step 5: If your child is accepted, we will contact you about next steps.

Orientation Preview

Where do our crewmembers start? Orientation kicks off with designing and building your own remote control car! We provide all the tech (circuit board, motors, controllers, 3D printer filament), and you bring the brainpower. You'll use 3D modeling software and printers to create your custom RC car, code it to move via Wi-Fi, and race it on the track. After orientation, you’ll be ready for ambitious projects like autonomous robots, AI chatbots, space rockets, or automated lemonade stands. Launchpad Dallas supports you every step of the way!

Learn About Sample Team Projects

Build a Go-Kart

Let's Race!

Design, build, prototype and RACE a go-kart!

Launch a Rocket

150km at Apogee!

Learn and apply Newton's laws, material sciences &resilience to build and launch a rocket to space.

Code an AI Bot

BrAIniacs know AI!

Crewmembers have the brAIns to trAIn a bot with a custom library.

Crewmember Project

Aidan | Founding Crewmember + Nuclear Fusor

Aidan's current project is building a nuclear fusor, with the goal of breaking the Guinness World Record for youngest fusioneer. He has been designing, prototyping, building and testing it for over the last year, spending most of his Sundays at Dallas Makerspace with the Science committee.

Visit mentor profiles who might be able to help with these projects>

Ready to Join?

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Launchpad Incubator different from gifted programs at my child's school?

Launchpad Incubator offers a unique experience that complements and extends beyond traditional school programs:

In-depth exploration of specific areas, going beyond what is possible in a school setting. Want your middle school child to learn statistics? We've got you covered.
Practical experience with advanced tools and technologies, turning ideas into reality.
True peer level teams, fostering collaboration and a sense of belonging.
Access to mentors, peers, and potential postsecondary opportunities that are on their level.

How much does Launchpad Incubator cost, and do you offer financial assistance?

We believe that every gifted child deserves access, regardless of financial circumstances. That's why we offer a sliding-scale membership model. Please contact us directly to discuss your specific situation and our scholarship options.

What are the time commitments involved?

We offer flexible programs to accommodate busy schedules. Students can participate during after-school hours, weekends, and school breaks. Homeschool students can spend time during and after their school days on site to work on projects. Crewmembers (and their families) determine how much time they spend at Launchpad. Specific project-based time commitments may vary, and we encourage open communication between parents and crewmembers.

How do you ensure the safety of my child?

Safety is our top priority. We will have strict safety protocols, thorough staff training, and access to all tools and equipment will be supervised.

We are currently reviewing training and safety policies at existing makerspaces (on campuses and independent) to ensure each crewmember safely and responsibly uses the tools at their disposal. We will update this section to reflect our policy once we have finalized it.

Our privacy policies are here.

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