Summer of Innovation | Great Lakes Science Center x Ganim Company
On June 14th, Ganim Company brought the power of real-world construction tech to life during the “Construction Day” at the Great Lakes Science Center’s Summer of Innovation series. This exciting new STEM initiative is designed to spark curiosity and connect families with the future of the workforce, through hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and face-to-face time with industry professionals. And for us, it was the perfect opportunity to show kids just how cool construction can be.
About the Event
Hosted on four Saturdays throughout the summer, Summer of Innovation spotlights Northeast Ohio’s core STEM industries: Construction, Technology, Sustainability, and Aerospace. Each themed day features engaging, family-friendly experiences led by regional leaders and passionate volunteers.
At the kickoff event on June 14th, Ganim joined forces with standout partners like Ohio CAT, ARCO, Saint-Gobain, Turner, and Whiting-Turner, offering kids of all ages a fun and educational introduction to the world of construction.
Ganim Company’s Hydro Vac Simulation.
Our Activity
At the Ganim Company booth, kids got to experience our mini hydro vac simulation — a scaled-down version of the high-powered hydro excavation work we do every day. Using turkey basters and paintbrushes as excavation tools, participants carefully uncovered hidden “underground utilities” (aka plastic straws) buried in sand.
It wasn’t just fun — it was STEM in action. Along with the activity we included an educational video detailing how the simulation involves STEM:
Science: Hydro vac technology relies on key scientific principles, including fluid dynamics, soil behavior, and environmental safety.
Technology: Operators use advanced onboard systems to precisely manage water pressure and vacuum functions.
Engineering: From the boom arm to the pressure system, every component is a product of mechanical and electrical engineering.
Math: Successful operation requires real-time calculations—like dig depth, PSI, tank volume, and weight limits—to ensure safe and efficient excavation.
Lesya helping lead the hydro vac simulation.
Why it Matters
STEM Comes to Life: Kids didn’t just hear about STEM—they felt it as they dug, uncovered, and explored.
Learning Through Play: The interactive setup made it easy (and exciting) to absorb big ideas through small actions.
Inspiring the Future Workforce: Families got a glimpse into real construction careers and the importance of safe, skilled excavation.
We’re proud to have helped launch the Summer of Innovation with such a meaningful experience. Ganim Company’s goal was simple: give kids a fun way to discover how science, technology, and construction work together in the world around them. Thank you to the Great Lakes Science Center for giving us the chance to help build a better, brighter, and more curious future.
For more information on upcoming Summer of Innovation events: Summer of Innovation | Great Lakes Science Center