FuturePlay with Open Innovation Centers in the Tech Playground

Session 3: 2:15pm-3:45pm (Friday March 06, 2026)

 

Description

Innovation in adult education doesn’t have to be abstract—or expensive. In this interactive session, Open Innovation Centers staff share their hands-on approach to teaching New Collar Skills: high-tech skills that don’t require four-year degrees. Participants will learn how OIC is launching workforce pathways in 3D printing, Artificial Intelligence, and Virtual Reality, aligned with stackable industry credentials. Through rotating stations, attendees will experience an AI prompt demo, learn about the 3D printing process, and explore immersive virtual worlds using VR headsets. The session emphasizes practical strategies, playful learning, and accessible ways to bring innovation into adult education settings—whether or not advanced technology is available.

Presenters

Lead Presenter Bio Photo

Clare Bhakta

Open Innovation Centers

Clare Bhakta is the Founding Executive Director of Open Innovation Centers and an educator with experience spanning preschool through college. A former member of the Lemelson-MIT invention education team, she has designed CTE computer science and invention courses and coached educators nationwide. Clare now leads hands-on professional learning focused on New Collar Skills—high-tech skills that don’t require four-year degrees—making learning relevant, engaging, and fun.

Lead Presenter Bio Photo

Jateen Bhakta

Open Innovation Centers

Jateen Bhakta is the Founder and Chief Learning Officer at Open Innovation Centers, where he leads innovative learning across education and workforce development. A technologist and educator, he founded CodeStack Academy, San Joaquin County’s first software development school. Jateen is currently piloting a 15-week AI internship with Stockton Unified, empowering students with no prior coding experience to learn AI and build solutions for schools, student groups, and local businesses.

Type of Presentation

Demonstration (60 Minutes)

Audience

  • Teachers
  • Administrators
  • Support Staff (Transition Specialists, Counselors, Librarians, etc.)

Program Strands

  • Adult Basic Education
  • Adult Secondary Education
  • Adults with Disabilities
  • English as a Second Language
  • Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship
  • Short-term Career Technical Education
  • Workforce Preparation

Category Strands

  • Digital Learning Foundations
  • Designing Learning Experiences
  • Digital Learning Models