Automotive

At the Austin Hatcher Foundation, we believe in the power of hands-on learning to transform lives. Our Industrial Arts Program offers a unique, non-traditional approach to developing social and behavioral skills by engaging children and their siblings in the trades and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) activities.

Instead of traditional therapies, participants work with tools, technology, and machines to build confidence, communication, and teamwork—all while gaining valuable skills in areas like woodworking, welding, automotive repair, and STEM-focused projects such as robotics and engineering.

Our program is guided by licensed Occupational Therapists, who tailor activities to support each child's physical, emotional, and cognitive development. By combining trade-based learning with STEM education, we engage participants in projects that challenge their problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking.

This approach not only supports the development of fine and gross motor skills but also promotes cognitive and sensory growth, helping children and their siblings improve their social skills and emotional regulation through both hands-on trade work and STEM exploration.

We recognize that childhood cancer affects the entire family, not just the child diagnosed. Our Industrial Arts Program is open to siblings as well, providing a space for them to bond, share experiences, and develop essential life skills together. Through shared projects that integrate STEM and trade-based activities, siblings connect in meaningful ways, building teamwork and emotional resilience.

This inclusive approach supports family cohesion and fosters understanding between all family members, ensuring that both the child and their siblings receive the emotional and social support they need.

The Industrial Arts Program is more than just a therapy session—it’s an opportunity to explore real-world skills and STEM concepts in a supportive, therapeutic environment. Working alongside skilled professionals and occupational therapists, participants discover the value of perseverance, the joy of creation, and the excitement of STEM discovery.

These projects foster self-esteem, improve emotional regulation, and strengthen social skills, all while engaging in task-focused, collaborative work that blends trades and STEM learning.

Combining trades with STEM provides a powerful educational experience where participants can engage their hands and minds in meaningful ways. Trade-based activities offer immediate results and a sense of accomplishment, while STEM projects challenge critical thinking and creativity. Together, these fields foster independence, teamwork, and problem-solving, encouraging social interaction in a structured yet creative environment. Whether working on group projects or individual tasks, participants build skills that will serve them well into the future.

At the Austin Hatcher Foundation, we’re proud to offer this innovative program as part of our mission to empower families facing the challenges of childhood cancer. By integrating trade-based, occupational, and STEM therapies, we help children and their siblings build more than just projects—they’re building brighter futures.