GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — Colorado Mesa University’s Mechatronics Mobile Learning Lab rolled into De Beque School District 49-JT on April 22–23, 2025, delivering technical trades and jobs skills for students in grades 5–12. The two-day event, facilitated by CMU Tech’s Community Education Center, introduced students to mechatronics, robotics and advanced manufacturing through interactive tours, demonstrations and hands-on activities tailored to each grade level.
The Mobile Learning Lab, a 53-foot classroom on wheels, brought state-of-the-art technology to the rural community, aligning with De Beque’s mission to develop well-rounded students through community partnerships. Supported by the Sturm Family and ANB Bank, the program has been a cornerstone of CMU’s rural outreach since 2019, offering accessible education across western Colorado.
On April 22, the half-day session engaged fifth and sixth graders with 30-minute tours of the lab, introducing them to mechatronics and robotics through short demonstrations designed to spark interest in STEM careers. Approximately 45 students, divided into five groups of nine, explored real-world applications of automation technology. Seventh graders, in a one-hour session, learned the basics of Arduino programming, controlling LEDs and manipulating servo motors. The 11-student group gained insights into high-tech industries, fostering curiosity about future opportunities.
The full-day session on April 23 targeted eighth through 12th graders, with 50–55 students participating in five 80-minute sessions. Each group began with an electrical safety overview before touring the lab and engaging in advanced activities, including digital and analog input/output programming, motor control, pulse width modulation and servo motor operations. These hands-on exercises introduced key electronics and automation concepts, inspiring students to explore careers in engineering and technology.
“The Mechatronics Mobile Learning Lab is about bringing opportunity directly to students,” said Dilon Ventola, custom program coordinator at CMU Tech. “Seeing De Beque students engage with Arduino systems and envision STEM careers is exactly why we do this.”
Audra Lane, principal of De Beque High School and superintendent of De Beque School District 49-JT, praised the program’s impact.
“This visit enriched our students’ understanding of technology and opened their eyes to possibilities in robotics and manufacturing,” she said. “It’s a perfect fit for our goal of preparing students for college and careers.”
The event reflects CMU Tech’s commitment to workforce development in rural areas, supported by funding from the Sturm Family and ANB Bank plus a grant from the Colorado Energy Foundation in 2020. The lab has visited communities like Delta, Glenwood Springs and Montrose, reaching hundreds of students with innovative education.
For more information about the Mechatronics Mobile Learning Lab or to schedule a visit, contact Robbi Grimm at 970.255.2560 or [email protected]. To reach Principal/Superintendent Audra Lane, contact the De Beque School District at 970.283.5596 or visit dbschools.org.
Learn more about CMU Tech’s programs at cadillaccar.net/tech/programs.