June 10, 2014 – In an effort to generate interest in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in young children, ABB has teamed up with Marbles Kids Museum (Raleigh, N.C.) to launch a play-based power grid exhibit called Kid Grid.

“Although Kid Grid is unique to North Carolina, the concept shouldn’t be,” said Greg Scheu, CEO of ABB North America. “We need highly skilled individuals with a passion for these subject areas.”

Funded by a $1-million grant from ABB, Kid Grid introduces young children to electricity and power grid technology through “hands-on, minds-on” play. Kids explore a pretend power grid and learn how to make energy choices. Kid Grid is complete with play versions of cables, control systems, motors, towers and transformers, as well as real equipment provided by ABB.

ABB says its employees and families collaborated with Marbles during initial design, brainstorming creative ways to get kids talking about energy. Engineers and experts from ABB continued to provide guidance and knowledge throughout design and construction to ensure Kid Grid accurately reflects a real power grid.

“It is our hope that, by engaging children at a young age, we can inspire them for a lifetime,” added Scheu.