What Our Clients Say about Us.
Please take a moment to review a collection of feedback from some of STEMpunkED's wonderful clients below. You can view a video of our program Light, Optics & Color taken and posted by the Pikes Peak Library District or visit our Free Resources page to view educational videos from our other programs.
Westlake Middle School
- Broomfield, CO
One thing that really impressed me about STEMpunkED is the way they integrate history, real-world problems and challenges into the program. This approach helps students understand how the concepts they learn in the classroom apply to real-life situations and challenges, making learning more meaningful and engaging. I found that the program's focus on critical thinking and problem-solving skills also helps students develop skills that are crucial for success in their future academic and professional careers.
Laura Israelson, Gifted & Talented Coordinator
Silver Hills Middle School
- Westminster, CO
I highly recommend STEMPunkED for your students. His ability to communicate complex ideas in a clear and engaging manner is impressive. He has a wealth of knowledge and passion for his work that is contagious. My 6-8 graders really enjoyed the interactive nature of his program and learned a lot, too!
Hayley Connely, Digital Literacy Partner/GT Advocate
Colorado BOCES (Boards of Cooperative Educational Services)
- Longmont, CO
STEMpunkED was a great experience for my students. They were deeply engaged with Richard and enthralled with Slide Rules by the time they finished his workshop! Richard was more than just prepared, hew was professional in his communication and comfortable with the students, which is a magical combination.
Paula McGuire, Gifted Education Regional Consultant, Northeast Region
Coyote Ridge Elementary
- Thornton, CO
Doktor Conundrum visited with each of our elementary Gifted and Talented groups this fall to conduct the Fairies in the Cogwork STEM workshop. Each group, from 1st through 5th grade, was extremely engaged for their entire 3 hour workshop, and Richard was very adept at differentiating for these different developmental needs. The content of the workshop integrated fairy tale adaptations with the 6 simple tools as a new problem solution, and our learners continue to refer to and utilize their learning to this day!
Melissa Murphy, GT Coordinator
Pikes Peak Library 21c
- Colorado Springs, CO
The feedback we got back from our teen patrons at Pikes Peak Library District after Doktor Conundrum came and taught the Steampunk Writing Workshop was phenomenal! The teens had such a wonderful time learning how to build characters and create worlds for their stories, and several adults reached out to request any resources we could share that were used in that class. For any age of student, I would recommend STEMpunkED and the diverse and engaging catalog of classes they offer.
Larissa Powers, Senior Librarian, Young Adult Services
Anythink Library
- Thornton, CO
Richard Blake came to my library and hosted a Steampunk Writing Workshop for small group of adults and it was so inspiring and wonderfully whimsical. Richard was patient and knowledgeable as he explained the origins and thought processes of the Victorian era and the concept of Steampunk. When it was time to write, Richard had a fun and innovative dice sheet that allowed participants to thoroughly explore the genre without fear of blank page and Richard’s constructive feedback and general positivity fostered a safe space for writers to workshop and share their work. It was a lovely, eye-opening experience and participants walked away feeling confident in their ideas and with a sense of deeper understanding of the steampunk genre.
Gina Collett, Adult/Tech Librarian
Mapleton Public Schools
- Denver, CO
StempunkED presented two virtual programs for our Gifted & Talented Program: Fairies in the Cogwork (for grades 2-5) and Automata: Simple Machines Mimicking Life (for grades 6-12). We were very happy with both presentations because "Doktor Conundrum" does a good job providing important contextual information (e.g. 6 Simple Machines) and building on those ideas to create an interesting and interactive program. In addition, he responds to the students with an open heart and mind, so they are excited to share their ideas and creativity. We look forward to having him present in our district again in the future.
Brad Russell, Assistant Director of Teaching and Learning
STEM Lab
- Northglenn, CO
It was our pleasure to be part of learning about the 6 simple machines! It was not in our prior knowledge, so this was very exciting learning for us. We enjoyed hearing the fairy tale and listening to the challenges that we could dream up and engineer a solution for! We loved identifying and naming different pictures of everyday items that use one of the 6 machine ideas. As you know, the kiddos rated the experience 5 out of 5 stars!
Jamie Vanderbeck, TEacher
Adams TWELVE Public Schools
I am a GT coordinator at 3 different schools and I had Richard, aka Dr. Conundrum, come to all 3 of my schools. He did May the Force (of static electricity) be With You, as well as Fairies in the Cogwork. Students and teachers loved both programs and Richard was able to keep all students, from Kindergarten through 5th graders, engaged in what he was doing. I even had my principals comment on how much fun the programs were. The kids loved the hands-on aspects of the programs and also learned a lot while he was with us. I would highly recommend his programs to anyone!
Rachel Haas, Gifted & Talented Coordinator, Adams 12 Schools
Adams Twelve GT Parents Group
- Broomfield, CO
We've hosted STEMPunkED several times for both in-person and virtual classes and his programs have always received rave reviews from our gifted students! Richard truly has a gift for engaging students in learning with a combination of history and STEM content that is hard to find elsewhere. For the virtual Fairies in the Cogwork and Automata classes, it was clear that Richard put a great deal of time and effort into creating interactive online classes, and students were eager to share their questions, comments, and creations. We look forward to having Richard back to teach additional classes in the future and would highly recommend STEMpunkED programs for any school or library.
Joanne Bliss, President
Lafayette Elementary
- Lafayette, CO
I was thrilled to have the opportunity to work with you. My class LOVED your program, and I cannot thank you enough for coming to school and teaching our students. I myself learned a great deal. Your materials and presentation were fabulous.
Katherine Kross, 5th Grade Teacher
katherine kross, 5th Grade Teacher
Garfield County Libraries
- Glenwood Springs, CO
Hosting Richard Blake aka Doktor Conundrum was one of the highlights of our Summer Reading Program! Richard brought a fun and inspired STEM-based presentation that had kids and their parents seeing science in a completely new light with the wonders of analog technology. Richard was a delight to work with. He was able to accommodate our six branch district and presented in an extremely entertaining, friendly, and fun way with our participants and staff. His program offerings are fantastic!
Alex Garcia-Bernal, Programming Director
Burlington County Library,
- Westampton, NJ
Richard was wonderful and very easy to work with, very knowledgeable, and best of all, his program was great! All of the feedback we've gotten on his virtual home computing presentation has been very positive, with patrons and staff wishing we could fly him all the way to New Jersey for in person presentations. It was so interesting to follow the journey coding has taken to evolve into what it is today. We can't wait to host him again soon!
Megan Dehmelt, Programming Librarian
Shadow Ridge Middle School
- Thornton, CO
We would highly recommend STEMpunkED to any educators looking for a new and innovative way to bring STEM programming into the classroom. The presentations were polished and sophisticated, yet still thoroughly engaging for our students. The information was spot on and our students are still raving about the hands-on opportunities. We can't wait to book Richard again next year!
Christina Greco, Gifted & Talented & STEM Club Director
Slavens School
- Denver, CO
Richard’s presenting style was engaging and fun – the kids really enjoyed listening to him. The information was exactly what we needed and at the right level. He was extremely patient with the kids and answered all of their questions and took time to ensure that every child had a chance to speak and be heard. There were multiple opportunities for kids to engage in a hands-on activity or model, which kept the kids active and interested. The presentation was packed full of relevant, understandable, and relateable information and my students came away filled with knowledge! Thank you for a great presentation!
Gretel Pavo, 3rd Grade Teacher
McAuliffe International School
- Denver, CO
It is without exaggeration that I recommend STEMpunkED as one of the most engaging, fascinating, and inspiring programming providers I have ever arranged for my students. Richard Blake has invested in both the complexity of his character (Doktor Silas Conundrum) and the full revitalization of his artifacts. The workshop entitled Difference Engines: Mechanical Brains, Analog Computers actually caused me to search out my very own Triumphator. It was painstakingly restored by a student who attended the session with me, and the beloved machine now sits proudly behind my desk as a testament to the time, not so long ago, when mathematics was a bit more ‘hands on.’
Shannon Wood Rothenberg, Competitive Math Team Coach
Alexander Dawson School
- Lafayette, CO
STEMpunkED has exciting and engaging programs to support learning in so many different Science topics. All of my students consistently rate their programs 5 out of 5 stars! The presenter comes prepared with hands-on materials that cannot be found anywhere else. He tells the true history of science, while also weaving in current events and present-day global perspectives. Students and teachers are enthralled throughout the entire presentation with amazing visuals and creative assignments to meet every learning style. I highly recommend any of the awesome programs that STEMpunkED has and I look forward to including many more in my Science Unit planning for years to come.
Stefani Sarvadi-Sullivan, 5th Grade Science Teacher
Achieve Institute at Pennock Elementary
- Brighton, CO
Richard has fascinating multi-media presentations that engage the students with facts (and humor!) and that even entertain the adults. His hands-on activities make it real with experiences you can't get anywhere else! Parents tell me how excited the children are to talk about what they learned in school that day. His class management strategies are as good as any teacher's, and his programs are sure to be a highlight of any STEM unit.
Loralie Cole-Holmbo, Gifted & Talented Educator
Meridian Elementary
- Broomfield, CO
Richard immediately engaged every one of our students throughout the entire program. The way he related to the students was beyond our expectations and the content of his presentation was extremely interesting to the students and teachers. Richard motivated our students to learn, engage and question science. We loved every minute of it!
Jenny Payne, Gifted & Talented Teacher
Silver Creek Elementary
- Thornton, CO
Richard was a delightful addition to our after-school science program. He was able to bring science alive in his Force of Static Electricity class. Students were highly engaged and LOVED the hands-on opportunities his program provided. We can't wait to have him back again!
Kristen Masterson, Gifted & Talented Coordinator
Angevine Middle School
- Lafayette, CO
Richard's presentation was lively and engaging, while rooted in complex scientific principles and concepts. His hands on, interactive presentation made the scientific principals accessible to all of the participants regardless of culture, age, gender or skill level. Richard got the students at Angevine excited about Science!
Stephanie Moriarty, Gifted & Talented ADVISER
Mackintosh Academy
- Boulder, CO
Richard’s presentation was interactive, informative, and inspiring for our students. The collection of hands-on equipment, coupled with the historical context made for a highly entertaining and engaging experience. I'd recommend this program for all students and educators looking for a hands-on experience with STEAM.
Colin Reynolds, Design & Innovation Specialist
Denver Academy
- Denver, CO
I would recommend the Automata Program to any teacher who has been studying simple machines with their class. It was a great way to tie it all together and give a greater context for why this all matters. Richard (Dr. Conundrum) brought in historical components, artistic and scientific applications, and present-day robotics to create a very engaging and meaningful presentation. The hands-on component at the end made the students work hard to apply all that they'd learned. Thanks Richard!
Kyla Pellouchoud, 3rd-4th Grade Team
Centennial Elementary
- Broomfield, CO
Richard is a fabulous presenter! He truly connected and was responsive to all of our students with varying academic and social emotional needs. His visuals were top notch and engaged all of the students, Kindergarten through fifth grade. We will definitely have him back next year!
Jane Smith, Instructional Coach
Lafayette Elementary
- Lafayette, CO
Richard provided an innovative and exciting workshop for my 1st grade students. This was not something I could have done on my own and his knowledge of the content was extensive and in-depth. He also had a great rapport and manner with the students. He got the kids involved and I'm sure it was an experience they will never forget. I highly recommend this and other programs offered by STEMpunk. What a wonderful resource and way to make science and technology engaging and fun for kids.
Emily Tate, 1st Grade Coordinator
Singing Hills Elementary
- Elizabeth, CO
Richard made this experience fun for the kids! Each of them left with new knowledge and understanding of what computers are and how they work! His energy, enthusiasm and knowledge of the subject matter made our "Art and History of Computing" a success for our 3rd - 5th graders!
Susan McMullen, STEM Specialist
Lafayette Elementary
- Lafayette, CO
Richard visited our school in early August with a wonderful opportunity to enhance the 2017 Solar Eclipse experience for our students. Richard’s materials and presentation had the right amount of teacher talk mixed in with student engagement. During the classroom sessions, Richard was on the floor showing students how the equipment he brought worked to help students understand what they were about to see in the sky. The learning was monumental.
Julie Marquez, Talented & Gifted Coordinator
Mamie Doud Eisenhower Library
- Broomfield, CO
Richard brings innovative and delightful programming to the library every time we partner with him. Working with Richard is relished by the staff and attendees alike. Each time I’ve been fortunate enough to be present for one of his programs I find myself as drawn in and mesmerized as are the attendees to which he presents. Richard’s passion for every program subject he proposes instills that same thirst for knowledge in all who are lucky enough to attend.
Pauline Noomnam, Teenzone Librarian
James H. LaRue Library
- Highlands Ranch, CO
Richard Blake delivers outstanding presentations and has an incredible ability to connect to people of all age groups. He is highly recommended!!
Kathryn Sunderland, Adult Services Librarian
Estes Valley Library
- Estes Park, CO
Richard was an exuberant presenter, with a comprehensive knowledge of his topic. He had fun facts to share and was very inclusive to all ages in the audience. The program was very entertaining!
Cheryl Homan Wendell, Program & Outreach Librarian
Pueblo County Library
- Pueblo, CO
We hosted STEMpunkED's "Fairies in the Cogwork" for our youth Summer Reading Program. Despite my anxiety about virtual programs, our audience of kids and tweens were all very engaged - answering questions and showing off their inventions with pride. I highly recommend this program for any library looking for virtual options.
Maria Kramer, Youth Manager
Garfield County Libraries
- Glennwood Springs, CO
Doktor Conundrum (Richard Blake) was able to build a rapport with the teens (something that is not always easy, particularly virtually) while also keeping them very engaged in his upbeat presentation. He encouraged participants to look deeper at their characters and their worlds and to really think about every aspect in a fun and encouraging way. At the end of the program all of the participants gave him a 10! The program was incredible and we would love to book him again for future events.
Laurin Arnold, Library Branch Manager
Lafayette Community Library
- Lafayette, CO
Richard was very professional and great with the kids and their parents. He had kids and parents smiling and laughing during the program. We would love to have him back for another program and can’t wait to see what else he comes up with!
Dominique Burns, Children's Programming Librarian
Erie Community Library
- Erie, CO
Richard brought several programs to the library for our Summer Reading Adventure and all were very well received and complimented on by the attendees. Richard is a great storyteller who communicates well with kids and adults and makes complex ideas easy to understand.
Lisa Varra, Programming Specialist
Bemis Public Library
- Littleton, CO
Our mostly senior crowd was delighted and enlightened - they participated, they asked questions, they oohed and ahhed at the beautiful astronomical models, and they said at the end that they wished this was how they had been taught about the Solar System in school. We will absolutely bring Richard back for future programs with our patrons of all ages!
Claire Mattoon - Programming & Outreach
Arthur Lakes Library: Colorado School of Mines - Golden, CO
Richard has delivered multiple creative, hands-on programs for our library, and each has been enthusiastically received by students and faculty alike. Richard knows the sweet spot for presentations that are rigorously researched and informative, but also truly entertaining. We now schedule him as a regular part of our programming.
Carol E. Smith, University Librarian
East Morgan County Library
- Brush, CO
STEMpunkEd programs are informational rich programs with engaging props and displays to enthrall children through adults interested in a variety of topics. Richard is a great passionate and knowledgeable presenter who cares about his presentation
Christy Bellis, Teen Librarian
Clearview Library District
- Windsor, CO
Richard Blake did a wonderful job presenting for our library. His presentation was educational and professional. He held the attention of our younger children and it was clear that they enjoyed interacting with him. I would love to have him back!
Katie Northern, Outreach Programming
Montrose Regional Library
- Montrose, CO
Wow! What an amazing experience. You can really tell Richard Blake puts so much thought into his programs. They were approachable to all ages with the perfect amount of education and entertainment. Our whole group got to participate and nobody left disappointed.
Sara Davis, Youth Services Librarian
Anythink, Huron Street
- Thornton, CO
Children, teens and adults were all captivated from start to finish. Richard includes interesting equipment that enhances the program and he engages the audience with discussion and questions making it an interactive experience. Richard was very professional and reliable and I highly recommend his innovative programming.
Shannon Smith, Teaching Librarian
Anythink, Huron Street
- Thornton, CO
STEMpunkED has been a fantastic addition to our after-school programming. Richard engages with the participants on their level of understanding and then uses in depth experiential learning to heighten that understanding, leaving everyone feeling like a master of the material. He brings a knowledge base about the subject matter he's teaching, as well as about how individuals learn, to the table. I am looking forward to continuing to work together to engage our library STEAM Club in a more substantial way--thanks to STEMpunkED!
Ashley Brown, Children’s Guide
Anythink, Wright Farms
- Thornton, CO
STEMpunkED provided our library with a showy, engaging, hands-on program that was a great time for everyone involved. The kids in the audience, in particular, were highly entertained but also had the opportunity to learn something in the STEM field. The integration of technology that we don't see every day was something special for customers to experience.
Ivy Moe, Technology Guide
Park Hill Library
- Denver, CO
Richard brought a fun and engaging look at static electricity to the Park Hill Branch Library that delighted kids and parents alike. Kids were drawn in by the Star Wars theme and loved participating in experiments demonstrating the how static electricity works in the real world-- little did they know, not only were they having fun, they were learning science! We would look forward to trying out some of his other shows at future dates.
Monica Washenberger, Librarian
Green Valley Library
- Denver, CO
Richard brought our Star Wars Reads Night to life with his static electricity program! Kids of all ages, and not to mention many adults, had a blast with the hands-on demonstrations. I love that the program is designed to be so much fun all while sneaking in some education! We can't wait to try out some of the other STEMPunkED programs in the future!
Victoria Blepp. Librarian
Lyons Regional Public Library
- Lyons, CO
Richard brought the world of Doctor Who alive for patrons and encouraged them to create their own characters in clever and unique ways. Richard’s presentation is a fun and interactive introduction to the world of fan fiction. We received positive feedback from the event, with patrons enjoying the unique topic and interactive aspects of the workshop. We would definitely work with Richard again on another writing or science-based workshop.
McCourt Thomas, Head of Youth Services
Colorado Railroad Museum
- Golden CO
On behalf of the Colorado Railroad Museum I would like to thank you once again for performing at our annual Steampunk at the Station special event. Your presence as an entertainer and educator really helped to create our festival atmosphere and your program was absolutely wonderful.
Danielle Ghear, Event Manager
Pikes Peak Library District
- Colorado Springs, CO
Richard Blake’s performances show that he is passionate and works very hard to engage, teach, and entertain with the utmost professionalism. Richard incorporated demonstrations, video clips, and educational information and successfully had all of the attendees’ attention the entire presentation.
Alicia Gomori, Children's Programming Librarian
Find out more about our Partners or learn about Who We Are and What We Do. Also view our Programs Catalog to see a running list of our offerings. Consider looking into Funding Options to help bring STEMpunkED programming to your school or organization.
