OMSI Partners with Project LEDO and Boeing to Cultivate Belonging in STEM
Media Contact: Amanda Rain
arain@omsi.edu | P: 503-797-4510
[PORTLAND, OR – November 10, 2026] – OMSI’s newly renovated Physics Lab reopens November 15, combining hands-on exploration of physics concepts with career-connected learning experiences for all visitors. The redesign brings together OMSI’s experience in science learning, Project LEDO’s community-centered and culturally-responsive perspective, and Boeing’s aerospace expertise to create an experience that is engaging, relevant, and designed to help visitors see themselves as scientists, engineers, and innovators.
Project LEDO’s role extends from developing activities for the refreshed space to bringing the experiences and perspectives of young people who have historically been left out of STEM into the design process itself. The collaboration builds on a multi-year partnership between OMSI and Project LEDO focused on creating culturally relevant programming and museum spaces where more learners can develop a sense of belonging in science.
“Access is only the beginning,” said Fidel Ferrer. “Because before somebody becomes an engineer, scientist, technologist, or innovator, they first have to be able to imagine themselves becoming one. That is where belonging becomes just as important as access.”
Throughout the redesign, the partners returned to a set of questions: Who will walk through these doors? Who are we designing for? Will young people see themselves in the experience? Will they understand where something they learn today could take them tomorrow? And will they leave believing that science and technology are worlds they can be part of?
That sense of possibility is central to what the partners hope visitors take from the refreshed Physics Lab. The goal is to spark a new question, introduce young people to careers they may not have known existed, or help them recognize that their own curiosity has a place in STEM.
“From the beginning, Project LEDO has helped shape the redesign of the Physics Lab, partnering with OMSI to envision how to make the space inclusive and welcoming,” said Alexis Baghdadi. “Their perspective, combined with Boeing’s industry knowledge, provided powerful insight as we developed dynamic, engaging experiences within the lab.”
Boeing contributed industry expertise and a $150,000 grant to support the renovation. Boeing aerodynamics professionals consulted on the new learning experiences, helping connect hands-on physics activities with real-world applications in aerospace and STEM careers.
“Physics is at the heart of aerospace, from understanding how airplanes move through the air to designing and manufacturing the parts that help them fly,” said Amy Frazier, Senior Community Relations Specialist at Boeing Portland. “We were proud to support OMSI’s Physics Lab and help connect young people with the real-world applications of science, engineering, and problem-solving. By working alongside OMSI and Project LEDO, we can help more students see that a future in STEM is within their reach.”
This project was also made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Award # MA-255481-OMS-24. IMLS invests in museums across the country, which play a crucial role as custodians of America’s rich historical, artistic, cultural, scientific, and natural heritage for the benefit of all generations.
“The opportunity has always been about making sure the voices and experiences of young people who are too often left out of STEM are part of the conversation,” added Ferrer. “We know the brilliance of the young people we work with, their curiosity, and how much potential is sitting there when somebody gives them an opportunity and believes in them. I want them to leave with their world a little bigger than it was when they walked in.”
Interviews will be available on Thursday, November 12 and Friday, November 13. Contact Amanda Rain at ARain@omsi.edu to schedule.
Find more information about the Physics Lab here.
Images available here.
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.
About Boeing
A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.
About The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS)
The Institute of Museum and Library Services is the primary source of federal support for the nation’s libraries and museums. We advance, support, and empower America’s museums, libraries, and related organizations through grantmaking, research, and policy development. IMLS envisions a nation where individuals and communities have access to museums and libraries to learn from and be inspired by the trusted information, ideas, and stories they contain about our diverse natural and cultural heritage. To learn more, visit www.imls.gov and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
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