The EV Innovators Club: Hands-On STEM, Real-World Impact

Education must keep pace in a world rapidly evolving and shifting towards sustainable transportation. For students, exposure to emerging technologies at an early age can be transformative. Enter the Legacy EV Innovators Club, a groundbreaking initiative designed to introduce young minds to electric vehicle (EV) technology through real-world, hands-on experiences.

During the 2024 APS Light Parade in Phoenix, this program shined—literally and figuratively—as students from across Maricopa County showcased electric go-karts they built from the ground up. More than just a parade entry, this event was a testament to how hands-on STEM education can spark new career aspirations and cultivate the next generation of EV innovators.

Following the success of the Maricopa County initiative, Legacy EV is expanding the Innovators Club to school districts nationwide. Starting in Summer 2025, schools will have the opportunity to bring this EV education experience to their students.

The Maricopa County Success Story

In 2024, Legacy EV partnered with Maricopa County Superintendent Steve Watson to launch the EV Innovators Club, providing students with an immersive journey into the world of EV technology. Over four months, participating schools worked through a structured curriculum that included:

• Understanding the history of EVs and their role in modern transportation
• Building and testing functional electric go-karts
• Learning about electric circuits, powertrains, and vehicle design
• Collaborating on marketing, storytelling, and creative problem-solving

The impact was clear during the APS Light Parade. Among the 120+ parade entries, 16 student-built electric go-karts took center stage, dazzling 75,000 spectators. The excitement was palpable, but the most powerful moment came when Josh Chilton, Community Outreach Coordinator for Maricopa County, asked how many students planned to pursue a career in e-mobility. More than half of them raised their hands. This is the heart of the EV Innovators Club—empowering students with skills, knowledge, and the confidence to see themselves as part of the future of transportation

What's included in the EV innovators club?

The EV Innovators Club brings STEM concepts to life by providing middle school and high school students with project-based learning experiences. This turnkey program includes everything needed for an engaging, project-based learning experience:

Electric Go-Kart Kit

• Complete set of parts, tools, and components to build a fully functional electric go-kart.
• Industry-standard safety and electrical equipment for hands-on assembly.

Comprehensive Curriculum

• Instructor overviews, lesson plans, and real-world challenges aligned with current industry standards.
• Gamified learning activities that reinforce electrical theory and EV fundamentals.
• Lab activities, simulations, and assessments to track student progress.

Hands-On Learning & Career Exposure

• Students explore core STEM concepts like circuits, motion, and energy by building and testing their own vehicles.
• Industry connections through guest speakers, mentorship programs, and career development resources.
• Discovery-based, project-based learning that encourages collaboration and innovation.
  
  

How It Works

Why This Program Matters

The EV Innovators Club is more than just an extracurricular activity; it’s a holistic educational experience that blends STEM learning, teamwork, and creativity. Students participate in hands-on learning, assembling an electric go-kart and installing key components like the motor, batteries, and controller. They gain exposure to electrical engineering basics, learning about circuits, power transfer, and troubleshooting. Additionally, students explore safety protocols and regulations surrounding electric transportation to ensure their builds are both functional and secure.

Beyond technical skills, the program provides career exposure and fosters 21st-century skills. Guest speakers from the EV industry share firsthand insights about career opportunities in EV manufacturing, engineering, and sustainability. Students also develop problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills by collaborating on a long-term project.

Expanding Access: Coming to More Schools This Summer

The future of mobility starts in the classroom. If you're an educator, school administrator, or industry professional who wants to help inspire the next generation of EV leaders, now is the time to act.

• School Districts: Sign up to bring the EV Innovators Club to your students this summer.
• Industry Professionals: Become a guest speaker or mentor to share your expertise.
• Community Members: Support local schools and students participating in the program.

Ready to get involved? 

By investing in programs like the EV Innovators Club, we’re not just teaching students about EVs—we’re equipping them with the knowledge and skills to drive the future.