CraterWorks, SOU, Portland State University and the Innovation Jam team hosts successful Design & Build Innovation Jam for students to unleash creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurial spirit!
Central Point, 11/8-11/9 — Students from SOU and RCC recently participated in an electrifying two-day “Design and Build Innovation Jam,” where they channeled their creativity and problem-solving skills to develop unique games. This high-energy event, which focused on using the design thinking process, engaged students in collaborative brainstorming, prototyping, and pitching, resulting in memorable experiences, innovation, and camaraderie.
Throughout the Innovation Jam, participants explored the five phases of design thinking—Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test—as they designed, built, and refined games tailored to user feedback. Facilitators guided the students in harnessing these stages to maximize creativity, tackle challenges, and test their ideas. By the end of the event, each team had a polished game concept, an understanding of effective prototyping, and a short, persuasive pitch.
“We were thrilled to see students diving into the design process with so much enthusiasm and passion,” said Dr. Kim Freeze with Southern Oregon Innovation Hub. “This experience encouraged them to think critically, collaborate effectively, and express themselves through hands-on activities—all while having fun. Events like these are essential for nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit and building essential life skills.”
The event concluded with each team delivering a 5-minute pitch, showcasing the results of their hard work to an audience of peers, faculty, and community members. Judges evaluated pitches on creativity, design, and potential impact, with ‘Two is a Party’ taking home the top prize.
With outstanding support from Portland State University, Invent Oregon and Craterworks, this Innovation Jam empowered students to apply design thinking to real-world scenarios, building their confidence and creativity. The success of this event marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and problem-solvers.