Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 20, 2024
Energy Education Foundation to Unveil New Mobile Energy Learning Unit in Partnership with 900lbs
Houston, TX – The Energy Education Foundation (EEF) today announced the relaunch of its highly successful Mobile Learning Unit, now rebranded as the Mobile Energy Learning Unit (MELU).
Nearly 20 years ago, EEF launched the Mobile Oilfield Learning Unit to bring the OceanStar Museum experience directly to students unable to visit the museum. Over time, this initiative expanded to include three units serving the Gulf Coast, Permian Basin, Marcellus, and surrounding areas,
offering thousands of students in grades 5-8 their first introduction to the oil and gas industry.
"The Mobile Learning Units have been a cornerstone of our educational outreach," said Kristen Barley, Executive Director of the Energy Education Foundation. "We recognize the impact these experiences have had on students and their understanding of the energy sector. Now, with the launch of the Mobile Energy Learning Unit, we are not only preserving that legacy but also pushing forward at a critical time. As the energy industry evolves to meet global needs while addressing climate change, this new unit will help students and communities explore the full spectrum of energy’s role in modern life."
The new Mobile Energy Learning Unit will continue to deliver hands-on, immersive education directly to schools, requiring less than half a day for a class to complete the experience. By setting up in common areas within schools, the MELU provides an engaging and time-efficient way for students to explore energy concepts in a real-world context.
The new units are being designed in partnership with immersive experience experts 900 LBS to ensure an innovative, engaging experience for students.
Founded in 2010, 900lbs is a forward-thinking experience design agency specializing in creating immersive learning experiences through emerging technologies, technical software, and compelling visual content. Their expertise spans a wide range of audiences, from preschoolers to adults, making complex subjects accessible and engaging. Among 900lbs' notable educational projects are interactive exhibits like the Leadership Lab Portal at Northern Star Scouting Base Camp in Minnesota, the “Life in the Forest” interactive wall at River Legacy Nature Center in Arlington, Texas, and STEM-focused learning in Collaborative for Children's mobile RV in Houston, Texas. Their expertise also extends to the energy sector, with projects such as Shell’s 360 Permian Basin Tour, an augmented reality tour for OnePointFive's Carbon Capture Facility, and EY’s Summit Carbon + Resilient City rapid prototyping. Through these pioneering experiences, 900lbs has become a trusted leader in experiential learning, driving innovation and engagement across education and energy industries alike.
Founder and CEO of 900lbs, Steve Deitz, said of the partnership; “We are truly honored to be selected by the Energy Education Foundation to create the next evolution of the MELU Program. Our mission at 900lbs is to Design Tomorrow, Together. We look forward to creating a newly designed interactive educational initiative that can be brought directly to schools to enhance STEM learning for children. Together, we will provide educators with a unique set of advanced tools to teach students key STEM concepts that will enhance their learning journey and ultimately drive results.”
The fully designed Mobile Energy Learning Units will debut in summer 2025 at energy industry and partner events nationwide. Starting in fall 2025, the MELU will serve schools across the country. Schools interested in joining the waitlist for a free visit can email info@energyeducation.org.
The Energy Education Foundation is dedicated to cultivating the future of the multifaceted energy industry by equipping the next generation, fostering dynamic networking opportunities, and driving innovation. EEF's hands-on STEM education programs reach over 350,000 students annually, covering all sectors of the energy industry, from traditional oil and gas to emerging technologies like wind, solar, and LNG. With more than 100 community and corporate partners, EEF connects students and professionals to build an inclusive energy future while advocating for a sustainable, comprehensive energy landscape.
900lbs is dedicated to serving and empowering clients and industry pioneers by crafting memorable experiences and interactive applications that drive impactful business results. As a certified Small Business Enterprise (SBE) and a proud member of the U.S. Small Business Chamber of Commerce, 900lbs leverages its innovative approach to deliver high-quality solutions that resonate across industries. For more information, visit 900lbs.com or contact info@900lbs.com.
