The Start to Finish Design School at PUP is a creative, hands-on program that introduces middle school students to the worlds of design, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. Designed in partnership with Christel House Academy West, located just across the street from our facility, this innovative program leads students through the process of turning salvaged materials into consumer products—teaching them valuable STEM and life skills along the way.

Using upcycled materials such as event banners, corporate signage, and motorsports team apparel, students engage in every step of the product development process—from brainstorming and sketching, to prototyping, production, and final presentation.

Students who have completed the program gain:

• STEM Skills – including design thinking, engineering principles, and basic fabrication.

• Social-Emotional Growth – through teamwork, problem-solving, self-reflection, and public speaking.

• Business & Entrepreneurship Insights – by developing an understanding of product value, marketing, and sustainability.

While originally designed for 8th-grade girls, the Start to Finish Design School is open to all students, focusing on creating an inclusive and empowering space where young people can explore their interests, discover their strengths, and envision their future careers in STEM and creative industries.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to The Women's Fund for their generous support of this program. Their investment has made it possible for 24 young changemakers to participate in this transformative experience, and their impact will continue to grow as the program expands to reach even more students in our community.