PNC Innovation Zone
PNC Innovation Zone at Whitaker Center encompasses the new Purposeful Gaming Studio and Select Medical Digital Cinema in a state-of-the-art space that engages today’s youth in science, technology, engineering, and math. This is accomplished through purposeful gaming and innovative programming.
These spaces focus on experiential learning and deeper engagement for students and families. Whitaker Center is committed to breaking boundaries and making STEM education programming accessible to everyone while addressing gender and equity barriers and bridging the digital divide that exists with underserved and underrepresented youth.
Programs in the PNC Innovation Zone include:
Programs that offer STEM Scholarships: Summer Camps, Surgery Live!, Field Trips to Whitaker Center.
From virtual reality experiences to coding workshops, the PNC Innovation Zone encourages a spirit of curiosity and innovation, making it a hub for educational enrichment and a vital resource for the community’s ongoing commitment to STEAM education
In addition to educational programming, PNC Innovation Zone and Purposeful Gaming Studio provides businesses and organizations transformative spaces to create, meet, and connect in our cutting-edge conference room. Book it now for your next team building event!
Purposeful Gaming Studio
Purposeful Gaming Studio on the Arcade Level of Whitaker Center is open for drop-in programming. Programs and activities will change from week to week, and include coding with Minecraft Education and Bloxels, building with Scrap Mechanic and Poly Bridge, and much more. Drop-in programs are included in your price of admission to UPMC Science Center.
Birthday Parties in the PNC Innovation Zone
Plan your next party at the PNC Innovation Zone. Program options include:
Gaming: Nintendo Switch – Ages 8+
Play some family favorites on one of the best selling video game consoles ever. Play classic games like Mario Kart, Smash Bros, and Switch Sports, with many other games available as well. This option works best with smaller groups of 2-8 players.
Coding: Scratch Game Design – Ages 8+
For those interested in computer science, try out coding with Scratch, a simple block coding language created by MIT. Guests will have the opportunity to create their own game, with multiple types being offered with step by step instructions for each.
Team Play: Esports – Ages 8+
Multiplayer games will be available for guests to play as a team or individually in a local online game format. Game modes can be tailored to include a squad (3 or 4 players) playing together to achieve a goal or compete amongst each other. Titles include Fall Guys, KartDrift Racing, Rocket League, Minecraft, and more.
