Innovation Academy
From block-based to Python.
Kids start with visual programming and graduate to writing real code that controls robots, drones, and microcontrollers.
Summer 2026 camps · Registration open
Where makers start.
Hands-on STEAM camps for kids ages 7–15 in Alexandria, VA. Real tools — 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC, welding, electronics — with instructors who build for a living.
On the floor
3D Printing · Robotics · Laser Cutting · Welding · Electronics
What kids learn
Code. Build. Ship.
By the time they leave, they've designed something on a screen, made it with real tools, and walked out holding it.
Machines that move.
Build, program, and pilot autonomous machines — from Cutebots in scout sessions to Battle Bots and drone obstacle courses in summer camp.
Pro-grade making.
Welding, laser cutting, 3D printing, soldering — same tools we use for professional R&D, scaled to kid-grade projects with safety first.
Pro-grade equipmentThe real deal — no toys
Safety-firstTrained staff · small groups
Take-home projectsEvery camp, every kid
Powered by Building MomentumR&D shop since 2011
Featured
Next up: Summer Maker Camp.
Our flagship week-long camp. Kids design a project on day one and leave with a finished build on Friday.
★ Most popular
Ages 9–14
Full day · 9a–4p
Limited spots
Summer Maker Camp 2026
Five days of hands-on building across our full shop — 3D printing, laser cutting, soldering, welding, and robotics. Every camper ships a finished project home on Friday.
Multiple weeksJune – August 2026
5 full daysMonday through Friday
Max 12 campers1:6 instructor ratio
Alexandria, VA5380 Eisenhower Ave
Programs
Pick your path.
Four tracks, one shop. Whether your kid is here for a day, a week, or the whole school year — there's a way in.
Ages 7+
Half-day
Scouts
Merit badge workshops and hands-on sessions built around Boy Scout, Girl Scout, and Cub programs.
Learn more →
★ Popular
Ages 9–14
Full week
Summer Camps
Week-long camps where kids design, build, break, and iterate across the full maker toolkit.
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Ages 8–15
Weekly
Homeschool
Weekly and monthly co-op sessions that plug STEAM skills directly into your homeschool curriculum.
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School groups
Half / full day
Field Trips
Bring a classroom, team, or youth group for a curated maker experience in our Alexandria shop.
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★ NEW
Grades 3–12
Schools
Robotics
School-aligned robotics curriculum on real platforms — LEGO SPIKE, Arduino, Micro:bit. 23 projects across grades 3–12.
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Parents & kids
What they're telling us.
"My 10-year-old came home talking about MIG welding. I've never seen him this excited about anything."MMaria K. · Parent, Alexandria
"Small groups, pro-grade tools, and instructors who actually build things for a living. This isn't daycare with a glue gun."JJames & Priya · Parents, Arlington
"I designed something on a computer and then it came out of a machine. It's like real magic."AAvery, age 11 · Summer Camper
Our partners
Trusted by the organizations who trust us with their kids.
About us
By the community, for the community.
Innovation Academy is powered by Building Momentum, a small business based in Alexandria, Virginia. Building Momentum specializes in advanced R&D, prototyping, and training for defense and industry — Innovation Academy channels the same spirit of innovation into hands-on education for our local community.
We believe in co-creating programs that ignite curiosity. If you don't see a program that sparks your kid's passion, reach out and tell us what you want to see.
Parent FAQ
Common questions.
Don't see yours? Ask us directly.
What ages do you accept?
Camps run for ages 7–15, grouped by skill level. Younger campers (7–9) work alongside older ones but with age-appropriate projects and closer supervision.
Is it safe? What about the real tools?
Every session starts with a safety briefing. Campers only use tools appropriate for their age and after one-on-one instruction. Power tools (welding, CNC) are instructor-assisted for younger groups. We maintain a 1:6 instructor ratio and every staff member is trained in shop safety and first aid.
What's a typical day look like?
Doors open at 8:45am. Mornings are skill-building and small projects — learning a tool, sketching designs, making parts. After lunch (bring your own), afternoons are project time where campers put it all together. We wrap at 4pm with a show-and-tell.
Do I need to bring anything?
Closed-toe shoes (required for the shop floor), a packed lunch and water bottle, and clothes that can get dirty. We provide all tools, materials, safety gear, and snacks.
What's the refund policy?
Full refund up to 14 days before the camp starts. Between 14 and 7 days we offer a 50% refund or full credit toward a future session. Within 7 days, credit only.