The Scout’s motto is simple: Be prepared. Today’s youth live an increasingly complex and challenging world. To prepare Scouts to be tomorrow’s leaders, our programs must ready youth to be at the cutting edge of discovery and innovation. STEAM literacy is also a critical need because it has a profound and growing impact on our day-to-day lives.

Our mission is to provide outreach to youth in Central Illinois to enhance their STEAM experience. Our vision is to develop future leaders in STEAM industries by delivering educational resources to schools, community organizations, and Scouting units in the Abraham Lincoln Council territory.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 10.8% growth in STEM jobs between 2022 to 2032, compared to 2.3% growth in non-STEM fields. The Pew Research Center reported in 2018 that STEM workers typically earn about two-thirds more than those in non-STEM jobs. A 2018 Emerson survey showed 2 out of 5 Americans believe the STEM worker shortage is at crisis levels.

Scouting America is in a unique position to harness the natural curiosity of Scouts and encourage their sense of wonder about these fields. Fostering STEAM education is our best opportunity to keep America ahead in STEM-related fields, to overcome tomorrow’s challenges, and to ensure a prosperous and secure future for our nation.

Introducing the Vortex S.T.R.E.A.M. Machine — the Abraham Lincoln Council’s state-of-the-art mobile teaching laboratory, classroom, and makerspace designed to ignite passion and curiosity for STEAM education among all ages. Onboard the Vortex, learners enter a dynamic environment equipped interactive learning tools. Featuring multiple high-definition televisions for vivid instructional displays and a fully outfitted interior lab space, the Vortex offers a hands-on experience that makes learning both engaging and fun.

Within its spacious and flexible setup, students can experiment with robotics, create electronic music, and engage in scientific investigations that encourage interest in these subjects. Each corner of the Vortex provides an immersive educational experience that challenges young minds to think creatively and solve problems innovatively.

Ready to embark on a journey of discovery? The Vortex is more than just a vehicle; it's a mobile gateway to the future of innovation, bringing STEAM to life wherever it goes!