WaveMakers: Design, Engineering & Robotics across the Curriculum
WaveMakers is an initiative by the Santa Cruz County Office of Education (Santa Cruz COE) dedicated to expanding hands-on learning and innovation in schools. Through makerspaces, industry-aligned CTE pathways, and cutting-edge teaching practices, WaveMakers empowers educators to inspire the next generation of problem-solvers. By providing teachers with the tools and strategies to integrate design, engineering, and robotics across the curriculum, we ensure students develop the critical skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological world.
WaveMakers is part of the Golden State Pathways Program, a grant-funded initiative aimed at expanding Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathways in engineering, robotics, and mechatronics. Led by Santa Cruz COE in collaboration with local school districts, community colleges, businesses, and nonprofits, this program is creating high-quality learning experiences that prepare students for success in college, careers, and beyond.
About the project
WaveMakers, in partnership with the Golden State Pathways Program, is dedicated to expanding industry-aligned Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathways to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in engineering, robotics, and technology-related fields. This initiative is designed to provide students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences that prepare them for success in college, careers, and beyond.
Key program elements include:
- New & Expanded CTE Courses in engineering, robotics, and mechatronics
- Dual Enrollment & Articulated Credit with community colleges
- Work-Based Learning Opportunities including internships, mentorships, and industry partnerships
- Equity & Access Initiatives to increase participation among underrepresented students
- Makerspace Development to enhance hands-on, project-based learning across subjects
Makerspace & Design Leadership Team (MDLT)
A key initiative within WaveMakers is the Makerspace & Design Leadership Team (MDLT)—a network of high school educators working to design, implement, and expand cutting-edge makerspaces at their school sites. These educators play a vital role in selecting equipment, developing instructional strategies, and supporting their colleagues in bringing hands-on learning into the classroom.
Resources & UPdates
As the project progresses, this page will serve as a hub for:
📂 CTE pathway updates & program developments
📚 Curriculum & instructional resources
🎥 Videos & best practices from educators
🌟 Spotlights on student projects & industry partnerships
Get Involved!
Are you a teacher interested in bringing innovation to your school? A student looking for exciting career pathways? A business or industry partner seeking to collaborate?
📧 Contact us: edtechtrailblazers@santacruzcoe.org