Celebrating 50 Years of Science on Wheels

This year, Science on Wheels celebrates its 50th anniversary!  

What started in 1974 as a response to the energy crisis has grown into a statewide program that sparks curiosity and provides interactive science experiences for all students.

When the gas crisis hit, we needed to take our lessons and exhibits into the schools. I was asked to organize the pilot program with Highline Public Schools. Initially, we had to car caravan in our own cars, filled with lessons and exhibits, to the schools. After a couple of months of car caravanning, we got a van! Oh, and of course, we had no cell phones or GPS, so we all got to the schools with xeroxed directions! Carol Kubota, Former Life Science Supervisor

What began as a practical response to a national crisis evolved into a revolutionary way to deliver STEM education to students, regardless of their location or economic background.

Over the years, Science on Wheels grew, with more vehicles and educators traveling to rural and remote communities that had little access to the science exhibits and hands-on experiments offered by Pacific Science Center.

A Look Back in Time! Science On Wheels’ original Computer Van in 1983

Sharing Memories of Impact 

Over the years, Science on Wheels has left a lasting impression on both students and educators.  

Conn McQuinn, a longtime leader of the program, recalls some unforgettable moments from the program’s early days. “We visited a school on Queen Anne Hill, where the instructors were both young women. Afterward, the teacher wrote to me saying that the computer club had been mostly boys—until that day. After our visit, the number of girls joining the club grew, and the numbers became nearly even.” 

It’s stories like these that illustrate the deep, personal impact Science on Wheels has had. 

As current educator Victoria Patella reflects, “It’s so rewarding to experience those moments where you feel the lasting impact of Science on Wheels. Just this October, I was at Sacajawea Elementary School in Richland, where we taught a program the year before. Not only did the students recognize me, but they also kept asking about Fred [our model skeleton]! It’s moments like these that remind me of the lasting connections we make.” 

Bringing STEM Education to Every Corner of Washington

Science on Wheels currently reaches communities in 27 of Washington’s 39 counties, many of which have limited access to science resources. Last year, 73% of participating schools were low-income, and they received programming at no cost, thanks to donor support. 

Having our students learn with hands-on materials, that most in our student population haven’t seen or experienced before, was invaluable. Watching students learn and explore and seeing them persevere through challenges and their exuberance at their success—there aren’t even words to describe what I’m feeling. Jes B., PTA leader at Olympic Hills Elementary

These visits don’t just teach science—they help build confidence in students. By experiencing the thrill of discovery, many students begin to see themselves in roles they may never have imagined. For some, it’s the first time they’ve considered becoming a scientist, engineer, or mathematician. 

The Road Ahead

As Science on Wheels celebrates its 50th anniversary, the program is looking ahead with excitement. It’s not just a series of visits; it’s a long-term effort to provide equitable access to STEM education for all students, regardless of their location. 

Strong community partnerships are essential to PacSci’s ability to expand access to STEM education. Amazon has provided multiple years of funding through Amazon Future Engineer, the company’s global philanthropic education program. Their leading support, along with support from the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) and additional generous donors, is helping expand free Science on Wheels and Digital Discovery Workshops to low-income elementary schools in every school district across Washington.  

“Education changes lives, and at Amazon we invest in programs to help children, higher education students, and adult learners unlock their potential,” said Dean Allsopp, Community Engagement Manager. “That’s why we’re proud to support the Pacific Science Center’s Science on Wheels program, which brings hands-on science education to underserved students across the region. Amazon’s donation to Science on Wheels is part of our broader commitment to empowering learners of all ages and providing the resources they need to foster curiosity and explore their passion.” 

With strong support from the community, we can do even more. With a goal to reach every K-8 low-income school in Washington, Science on Wheels is dedicated to ensuring that no student is left behind. It’s about equipping every student with the tools they need to succeed in a world increasingly shaped by science and technology. 

Outreach programming is continuing to expand with new Digital Discovery Workshops that complement the Science on Wheels curriculum. Access to these virtual programs enrich and extend science learning opportunities year-round. 

As Science on Wheels continues to evolve, it will stay on the cutting edge of education, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and dream big. 

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Together, we can inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators—and make science accessible to all. 

Science on Wheels is presented by Amazon Future Engineer and Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction.  

Thank you to our generous supporters, including Intellectual Ventures, Alaska Airlines, First Tech Federal Credit Union, Chevron Corporation, The Baker Foundation, Dennis & Phyllis Washington Foundation, Verizon, Bamford Foundation, Hazel Miller Foundation, Hubbard Family Foundation, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee, Pacific Power Foundation, an anonymous donor, NASA, more than 1,500 individuals, companies, and foundations, as well as more than 13,000 member households.  

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