UTC Challenger STEM Learning Center
Real Space Missions. Real STEM Learning.
Chattanooga's premier hands-on STEM experience for K–12 students, corporate teams, and curious visitors — right here on the UTC campus.
Inspiring learners to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.
THE MISSION CONTINUES at the first university-based Challenger STEM Learning Center, launched in 1994 to carry on a forward-looking legacy rooted in curiosity, collaboration, innovation, and perseverance. Located on the UTC campus in Chattanooga, Tennessee, we bring K–12 students, educators, and community members into immersive space mission simulations that make STEM real.
Whether you are a teacher planning a field trip, a business building a stronger team, or a family looking for something extraordinary — there is a mission here for you.
Planning a visit? See hours, directions & parking → Visit Us
STEAMagination returns for its fourth year on Saturday, October 24, from 10am to 1pm at the UTC Challenger Learning Center, 755 Mocs Alumni Drive!
This free festival invites families and community members to spend a morning exploring science, technology, engineering, arts, and math together. Kids can tour our space shuttle, build something of their own to take home, and catch live demos from partners across the Tennessee Valley, including TN Valley Robotics, the Chattanooga Fire Department, TVA, and several UTC departments. Parking, admission, and snacks are all free, and there will be giveaways throughout the day. Drop in anytime between 10 and 1, and register your family here so we can plan for you. Organizations and UTC students who want to exhibit or volunteer can sign up here.
THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE MISSION
Meet Our Team
Our staff brings together decades of experience in education, space science, and STEAM programming — dedicated to making every mission unforgettable.
Rob Lein
Executive Director. Contact Rob to establish partnerships, arrange programming, collaborate on events, or inquire about the CLC.
Julie Spino, PhD
Hamilton County Lead Teacher. Contact Julie for information about educational programs, curriculum alignment, and STEAM learning labs.
Bill Floyd
Resident Space Educator. Contact Bill for speaking engagements, guided tours, and Challenger UTC historical information.
SUPPORT THE MISSION
Help Us Inspire the Next Generation of STEM Leaders
Your gift keeps our missions flying. Every dollar supports hands-on STEM experiences for K–12 students across the Chattanooga region — many of whom would not otherwise have access to programs like ours.
Gifts are processed securely through the UTC University Foundation.
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