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Project-Based Learning Labs

Real projects. Real impact. Future-ready skills.

We don't just train learners. We help them build real-world proof of skill, through projects that solve actual problems for real communities and organizations.

Apply for Project LabsPartner as a Project Sponsor
Why Project Labs?

Proof of skill is more powerful than a certificate alone.

Employers need to see what you can do, not just what you studied. READS Project Labs give learners the chance to build real deliverables that demonstrate real capability.

Work on real client and community projects, not simulations
Build a portfolio employers can evaluate during hiring
Develop professional communication and project management skills
Contribute to open-source tools with lasting public benefit
Receive mentorship from working professionals throughout the project
Students working on robotics project
Our Labs

Five lab tracks. Unlimited project possibilities.

Tech & Innovation Lab

Build real software. Prove your skills.

Learners build apps, automate solutions, and explore AI, data, and cybersecurity in projects that serve real clients and communities.

Example Projects

AI tools for rural education access
Data dashboards for nonprofits
Automation scripts for community organizations
Mobile apps for underserved communities
Cybersecurity audits for public-benefit organizations
Tech and Innovation Lab learners collaborating on code

Sustainability Lab

Design for impact. Build for the future.

Design projects that promote environmental stewardship, resource management, and community well-being through technology and research.

Example Projects

Environmental data collection platforms
Community resource mapping tools
Sustainability reporting dashboards
Green technology research projects
Public health data analysis
Students working on sustainability research

Health & Community Lab

Apply skills to real health challenges.

Tackle real health challenges through education, outreach, and innovation. Learners work on projects bridging technology and healthcare access.

Example Projects

Healthcare access platforms
Mental health resource directories
Community health education apps
Patient support tools
Health data analytics for nonprofits
Learners working on community health projects

Career Readiness Lab

Simulate the professional workplace.

Mock client assignments, portfolio projects, and workplace simulations that help learners build confidence and professional communication skills.

Example Projects

Mock consulting projects
Client presentation simulations
Professional portfolio development
Resume and LinkedIn optimization workshops
Interview preparation clinics
Career readiness lab participants in mock presentations

Research & Open Source Lab

Build tools that serve the public good.

READS accepts grants to build open-source platforms and conduct workforce readiness research for public benefit and community advancement.

Example Projects

Open-source learning management tools
Workforce outcome research studies
Career-matching algorithm development
Rural education access studies
Public-benefit AI prototypes
Research lab participants working on open source projects
Sponsor a Project

Have a real project? Become a lab sponsor.

Organizations can submit real project briefs to our labs. READS learners build the deliverable under mentor supervision, giving your organization real technology outputs and giving learners real portfolio proof.

For nonprofits

Get a real technology deliverable: app, dashboard, or tool, built by READS learners under mentor supervision.

For employers

Source pre-vetted learners for real projects. Evaluate potential hires through authentic work before making offers.

For communities

Commission public-benefit technology projects that serve your community and build local talent pipelines.