Advances in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and information sciences, and biotechnology hold the potential to transform economies, improve lives, and solve some of humanity’s most pressing challenges. These technologies are driving innovation, creating entirely new industries, and demanding specialized talent to fuel their growth. Chicago is demonstrating it can be a major hub for these industries—the Chan-Zuckerberg Bio-Hub, IBM Quantum System 2, and PsiQuantum among recent wins. Clearly, there are opportunities, but are they accessible?
For the City of Chicago and the South Side to thrive in the future economy, we must create meaningful pathways for young people in our neighborhoods to become the scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators of tomorrow. That challenge—providing equitable access to emerging fields—is not unique to Chicago or this moment in time. Bridges must be built to match community needs with economic opportunity.
The Southside STEM Station at Hyde Park Labs is one such bridge. Opening officially on May 29, the Southside STEM Station is the response of Hyde Park Labs developers, Beacon Capital Partners and Trammell Crow Company, to community conversations on how to expose local students to innovative science at the new state-of-the-art commercial lab facility. The Station is located on the first floor of the new development and is primarily funded by Hyde Park Labs in partnership with the University of Chicago and other Hyde Park Labs tenants. The Station is an important model for exposing our determined and curious young people to viable careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
The Station merges STEM education with real-world application—providing hands-on learning programs and partnerships with local schools and organizations. The educational lab is a significant investment in the people and potential of the South Side. A dedicated staff will ensure young people see themselves as future scientists, problem-solvers, and innovators. This summer, University of Chicago STEM Education is working to program a multi-week camp at the Southside STEM Station. In addition, the STEM Station is partnering with the UChicago Youth Internship Program by developing a STEM Challenge to supplement activities for their summer internship program. Throughout the year students, educators, and local partners will engage in enriching, hands on STEM experiences—building robots, designing climate solutions, exploring microelectronics, and asking big questions about how the world works and how they can shape it.
In Chicago, innovation means more than invention—it signifies inclusion and collaboration. It means building a city where every young person, regardless of their zip code, has the tools to thrive in a science-driven economy. It means investing in the talent pipeline that makes our city competitive for the future.
Do not underestimate the grit and determination of our young people and the value they can bring to these new industries. Give them a spark; they will know how to grow it.
Learn more about the Southside STEM station on their website.
This piece was written by Christian Mitchell, Vice President for Civic Engagement at the University of Chicago, and first appeared in Crain's Chicago Business on May 28, 2025.
