Stemvox Brings Hands-On STEM Learning to Powerlink & Saugeen Shores

Powerlink is home to builders — entrepreneurs, creators, and community-first ventures that make the region stronger.

One of those ventures is Stemvox, led by founder Timothy Gard, delivering hands-on STEM education for local youth right here in Port Elgin.

From robotics to coding to collaborative problem-solving, Stemvox is creating something that’s hard to replicate anywhere else: a real, in-person STEM community where students learn together, build together, and grow confidence through doing.

Why Stemvox chose Powerlink

When Stemvox expanded to Saugeen Shores, Tim was looking for more than just a room with four walls. He needed an accessible, professional space that could support hands-on learning, welcome families, and handle the day-to-day realities of running a program with equipment moving in and out.

Powerlink stood out quickly.

The building is bright, clean, modern, and easy to navigate — and just as important, the people running it are supportive and responsive. For a program like Stemvox, that reliability matters.

A Space That Students Want to be in

Stemvox recently moved into a larger first-floor space at Powerlink — and the change has had an immediate impact.

First-floor access makes arrival and equipment movement simpler, especially when you’re working with robotics gear and multiple devices.

But one detail stood out in a way that surprised even Tim: the students cared a lot about natural light.

When asked about moving spaces, many of them had the same question: “Does it have windows?”

Natural light, a bright environment, and a welcoming vibe all add up to a space that supports learning — and makes students feel comfortable and energized when they’re here.

Business-Grade Internet (because 20 devices is normal)

Stemvox runs sessions with many students online at the same time — sometimes 20+ devices connected at once. That requires reliable, high-speed internet, every day, without constant troubleshooting.

Powerlink’s internet capabilities and support are a major advantage:

• Strong speeds that can handle real classroom-level demand

• Managed service (so Stemvox can focus on teaching, not IT)

• Quick response if anything needs attention

For any modern learning program, infrastructure like this isn’t “nice to have.” It’s essential.

Robotics Classes That Students Love

Stemvox launched robotics classes over the summer — and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

These sessions have become a favourite for students because they’re fun, hands-on, and engaging while still building real skills. Families have shared strong feedback, and the programs have quickly gained momentum through word-of-mouth.

Even better: many families discover Powerlink for the first time through Stemvox — and walk in genuinely surprised by what’s happening inside the building.

Why in-person STEM Education Matters

In a world where online learning resources are everywhere, it’s fair to ask: couldn’t students just learn STEM on YouTube?

Tim’s view is clear: you can learn information online, but you can’t build the same collaboration, confidence, and emotional intelligence alone.

In person, students:

• Help each other solve problems

• Share ideas and approaches

• Learn teamwork and communication in real time

• Feel safer taking risks and trying new things

That “community effect” is a big part of what Stemvox is building — and why being inside a place like Powerlink matters.

Curriculum-aligned Learning — with School Coordination

Stemvox doesn’t operate as an ad hoc program. Tim explains that the learning is aligned with Ontario Math and Science curriculum, and families coordinate participation with schools using parent permission and proper communication.

Students can attend during the school day in a way that keeps expectations clear and supports safety and accountability for everyone involved.

Stemvox currently serves Grades 3 through 8 in the Port Elgin area, with a strong fit for families looking for deeper STEM engagement — especially students who want more challenge and hands-on learning opportunities.

"You can learn information online, but you can’t build the same collaboration, confidence, and emotional intelligence alone." - Tim Gard

Want to learn more (or visit Stemvox at Powerlink)?

If you’re a parent, educator, or community partner interested in hands-on STEM learning, Stemvox is a great place to start.

Learn more about Stemvox. Interested in becoming a tenant at Powerlink? Reach out to our team to book a tour.