This was the question that launched the quest. One day my son and I were putting together a LEGO Skyline set, and started talking about local landmarks we could build. He had few ideas, and it dawned on me that local history isn’t taught in school (or anywhere else). This is compounded by the dearth of local opportunities for kids like my son who are interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) fields.

I was thrilled to be chosen as one of 10 Joplin entrepreneurs for the Summer 2022 Cohort of the Idea Accelerator program. With the help of the incredible team at Builders and Backers, I’ve developed Landmark Builds, a venture that combines a love of local history with STEM skills acquired through creative innovation.