Laying the foundation for future leaders.
A student-led mentorship program connecting UW Construction Management and Architecture students with K–12 classrooms to lead hands-on design-build projects.
Join the Interest List →What is SLAB?
SLAB is a design-build mentorship program created by students at the University of Washington.
We pair college students studying Construction Management and Architecture with local K–12 classrooms to guide younger students through small, hands-on building projects — right inside their own schools.
Each build is a chance for students of all ages to explore teamwork, design thinking, and the built environment in action.
How It Works
SLAB runs on a simple 4-week classroom format:
Week 1
Meet & Discover
Week 2
Design & Plan
Week 3
Build & Problem Solve
Week 4
Present & Reflect
No field trips. No special equipment. No extra prep for teachers.
We make it simple. You make it possible.
Who It’s For
K–12 Educators
Get a structured, in-class mentorship experience that introduces students to STEM, design, and teamwork—with zero cost or logistics required.
Learn More →UW CM & Architecture Students
Gain leadership, project planning, and real teaching experience—all while inspiring the next generation of builders.
Learn More →Community Partners & Sponsors
Help us grow SLAB across more classrooms by supporting materials, outreach, and student leadership opportunities.
Learn More →Fall 2025 Pilot
We’re launching our first SLAB builds in Fall 2025, starting with Seattle-area classrooms and UW student mentors.
This is just the foundation—we’re building something much bigger.
Get Involved
Interested in bringing SLAB to your classroom, joining as a mentor, or supporting our mission? We'd love to hear from you. Send us an email to join our interest list for the Fall 2025 pilot and beyond.
Email Us →