When Joanna Mattis first heard about Future Innovators Academy (FIA) through an enthusiastic word-of-mouth endorsement, she knew it could be the perfect fit for her children—especially her oldest, who had a strong interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).
Over the years, all three of her kids—Elena (6), Zachary (10), and Oscar (13)—have taken part in FIA’s after-school classes, school closure day camps and summer camps.
A hands-on, student-driven approach
From the start, the Evans children were drawn to FIA’s creative, build-it-yourself style of learning.
“The instructors are really cool, and I really like building a product and coming up with my own ideas,” Oscar said. “Like, ‘I think we should build it this way,’ or ‘I have a really cool idea for designing it like this.’”
Zach added, “My favorite thing at FIA has been independent time when you can just tinker and make something new that is interesting and cool.”
Boosting confidence through choice
This freedom to choose their own projects has been a big confidence booster.
“In school, you don’t often decide what you are going to do—you just get assigned something, like ‘make a keychain,’” Oscar said. “With FIA, you get to choose your own project. This gives you experience thinking outside the box and thinking about constraints of the resources you have, like what a 3D printer can or can’t do. It’s also a chance to gain experience with different tools, like a laser cutter and 3D printer.”
STEM skills beyond the classroom
The impact has extended into the Evans family’s home life.
“Our son talked us into getting a 3D printer to have at home, and he is constantly designing and printing things—ranging from silly toys to very useful home improvement objects,” Joanna said.
“I have been interested in STEM for a while, but FIA has helped me come up with my own ideas for things to try to make at home,” Oscar said.
Favorite projects and memorable moments
Some projects have left a lasting impression.
“One of my favorite projects was designing a folding shield that opens up,” Oscar said. “I also made a robot in a robotics class, and I was driving the ideas of how the code would work, like how to scan the room and decide where to go.”
Zach said, “We did a fun activity, drawing logos and then creating them in 3D. It was interesting because you were able to design something that you wanted to do, instead of doing something because someone else told you to.”
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What sets FIA apart
Joanna has also noticed that FIA stands out from other programs her family has tried.
“FIA classes are very organized, and the instructors are really awesome. They’re knowledgeable and open to answering questions,” she said.
“Lots of classes are drop-in so you can just go for one to try it,” Oscar said. “They also have Friday night activities where you do a cool project and get some pizza. I especially recommend Nathan as an instructor.”
A bigger and better space
The new FIA location has also impressed the Evans family.
“The new space is way bigger than the old one,” Oscar said. “There is a large room called a recreational room, the decoration is nice, it’s well maintained, and there are multiple 3D printers with prints on display—which is really cool.”
A clear recommendation
For the Evans family, FIA has been more than just an extracurricular—it has been a launchpad for creativity, problem-solving and lifelong skills.
“I would definitely recommend FIA to other families,” Oscar said.
Zach echoed the sentiment: “I would recommend FIA to other families. You don’t have to know how to code in advance.”
Inspiring the next generation of innovators
This year, FIA took an exciting step forward by moving into a new facility at 4130 Varsity Drive in March 2025.
Behind FIA’s exciting new space is a powerful vision: “Empowering the next generation of innovators to shape the future.” Founder Andria Sperry believes deeply in a mission that guides every course, camp and workshop.
“At FIA, we foster creativity, critical thinking and collaboration through engaging, hands-on STEM programs,” Sperry said. “We’re passionate about giving students the freedom to explore, create, and innovate in a technology-driven world. Our new, expanded location embodies this vision perfectly—offering bigger classrooms, state-of-the-art tools, and an inspiring environment designed specifically to spark curiosity and build confidence.”
Whether it’s coding, robotics, digital design, or simply exploring new ideas, FIA’s new facility was thoughtfully created as a hub for young innovators to thrive—where making mistakes and breaking things is celebrated as part of the creative journey.
“Our space is more than just classrooms and equipment,” Sperry said. “It’s a place where young people build skills, confidence and friendships that will last a lifetime.”
To learn more about FIA’s programs and upcoming events, visit thefutureinnovatorsacademy.com.
