When Tiffany, a dedicated Hydro employee at the company’s aluminum recycling plant in Commerce, learned that the elementary school down the street lacked a dedicated science lab, she saw an opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Having been engaged in the local community for years, Tiffany took the initiative to secure funding and bring along additional Hydro employees to support the renovation and installation of a state-of-the-art STEM lab, creating a hands on learning environment for the young minds of Commerce.

“As someone who works in manufacturing and sees the importance of STEM skills every day, I wanted to help give local students the same sense of curiosity and excitement for science and technology,” Tiffany says. “This project will give them a place to explore, experiment and discover. These are all critical skills for the future workforce and for advancing more sustainable industries like ours.”

Investing in the Future of STEM Education

The new science lab will transform an existing classroom into an interactive learning space where students can engage with STEM subjects through hands on experiments and technology driven activities.

The initiative includes funding for classroom renovations, the purchase of lab equipment, STEM focused learning materials and professional development for teachers to enhance STEM instruction.

“We’re incredibly grateful for Hydro’s support and for Tiffany’s dedication to making this project a reality,” says Dr. Tremmel. “Having a fully equipped science lab will not only improve the quality of education for our students, but will also inspire them to see STEM as a path for their future careers.”

In addition to the $20,000 dedicated for the new science lab, Hydro has provided a total of $14,900 related to other local educational projects, such as meals for underprivileged students, flooring in elementary school lab, antibullying, teacher supplies and scholarship to college students.

Building stronger communities

The STEM lab project is part of Hydro’s Just Transition Program, which supports local initiatives that create meaningful impacts in the communities where the company operates. Hydro has also encouraged employees to volunteer their time in the renovation process, reinforcing the company’s commitment to hands on community engagement.

“At Hydro, we believe in investing in the future. Whether it’s through technology and competence in local industries that deliver solutions and products to a global marketplace, or by supporting the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators,” says Hanne Simensen, Executive Vice President in Hydro. “By providing both funding and employee involvement, we hope to empower young students in Commerce with the tools and inspiration they need to succeed in STEM fields.”

With Hydro’s support, Commerce Elementary students can learn in a space designed to foster creativity, critical thinking and a passion for science, ensuring that STEM education remains at the forefront of their academic journey.

The 65 employees at Hydro Commerce recycle around 100,000 tonnes aluminum annually for key American industries such as automotive, transportation, and building and construction.