Investment set to modernize OMSI Physics Lab and inspire future STEM careers
Media Contact: Amanda Rain
arain@omsi.edu | P: 503-797-4510
[PORTLAND, OR – March 24, 2026] – Boeing is partnering with the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) to reimagine and upgrade its Physics Lab, an immersive, hands-on space within the museum where learners develop foundational understanding and skills.
Boeing’s partnership includes a $150,000 grant supporting upgrades and improvements. As part of this effort, Boeing’s aerodynamics experts will work with OMSI to develop new lab experiences that teach physics concepts and skills through different storytelling narratives. This collaboration also advances a key OMSI priority: supporting science education development through hands-on learning and increasing awareness of different industries.
“Industry partnerships such as our collaboration with Boeing are essential to OMSI’s mission,” said Erin Graham, OMSI President and CEO. “Together, we’re able to showcase real-world science and technology while helping inspire the next generation of innovators. We’re grateful for Boeing’s longtime support in making science learning accessible, and helping young people build the curiosity and skills needed for today’s rapidly evolving workforce.”
“At Boeing, we believe that inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders is critical to the future of innovation and aerospace,” said Boeing Portland Community Relations Specialist Amy Frazier. “We are proud to support OMSI’s Physics Lab refresh, which will provide hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and build essential skills. By partnering with OMSI and Project LEDO, we are helping create a more inclusive and engaging environment where all learners can see themselves as future scientists, engineers, and innovators.”
Included with admission, OMSI’s labs are extensions of the museum exhibit halls, where visitors are invited to explore scientific phenomena more deeply, with guidance from staff and volunteer educators.
In addition to Boeing’s investment, OMSI is collaborating with Project LEDO, a youth-serving organization focused on promoting equity and diversity in STEM fields.
“Science should feel accessible, exciting, and relevant to everyone,” said Fidel Ferrer, Founder and CEO, Project LEDO. “We’re helping design learning experiences that connect physics concepts with real-world innovation and career pathways. At Project LEDO, we believe you don’t have to be a scientist to become a science promoter; anyone can spark curiosity, share discovery, and help youth see themselves in a brighter future in STEM.”
“Our museum engagement team is thrilled to partner with Project LEDO and Boeing to update the Physics Lab experience to create a space of belonging where everyone can see themselves in STEAM,” said Alexis Baghdadi, OMSI Director of Campus and Museum Engagement. “With Boeing’s expertise and support and Project LEDO’s community-centered lens, together we are co-developing a space that will inspire the next generation to pursue diverse career pathways and emerging industries in the Pacific Northwest.”
The majority of OMSI’s 750,000 public visitors each year spend time in one or more science labs during their visit. The Physics Lab is one of several spaces that will be updated in the next several years as part of OMSI’s long-term path toward museum experience innovation and expanding its ecosystem of partnerships to better serve communities.
The Physics Lab is anticipated to reopen in Summer 2026.
Images available here.
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About OMSI
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation’s leading science museums and a trusted educational resource for communities throughout Oregon and the region. Through museum exhibitions, public programs, outdoor programs, traveling exhibitions, digital learning, and learning research and design, OMSI nourishes a lifelong love of science, curiosity and learning among its diverse audiences. The upcoming OMSI District – a collaboration of local, Tribal and regional government entities, nonprofits and businesses – will be a one-of-a-kind neighborhood with innovation, culture and science learning at its heart. OMSI is located at 1945 S.E. Water Avenue, Portland, OR, 97214. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit omsi.edu. Connect with the museum on Facebook and Instagram.
About Project LEDO
Project LEDO is a Portland-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the next generation of STEAM leaders through culturally responsive robotics and technology programs. Founded in 2019, the organization partners with Title I schools, community-based organizations (CBOs), museums, and industry leaders in the technology and science sectors to expand access to hands-on science and engineering learning opportunities for students who face systemic barriers in STEM fields. Through robotics education, mentorship, and community-centered initiatives, Project LEDO helps youth develop academic identity, motivational resilience, and a growth mindset, while inspiring them to become technology leaders, innovators and science promoters in their communities. Visit projectledo.org for more information.