Build bold ideas. Keep learning.
Explore rocketry, robotics, CAD, 3D printing and software through hands-on making. X-Ploy STEM is a growing initiative for curious learners, families, educators and teams, with public tools to try and a signed-in lab to organize your work.
Find your next starting point.
See what you can use today and what’s still taking shape. Public tools open directly; the STEM Lab uses your existing account. Tool availability and access are managed by the STEM app.
Rocketry · In development
Tools for exploring flight, recovery and engineering workflows are in development. We’ll introduce reviewed resources as they become ready.
NPC · Public tool
Create patterned through-pockets in closed plate models with Noah’s Pocket Cutter. Explore seven patterns with STL or supported Core 3MF input, then inspect the result in your slicer.
STEM Lab · Login required
Use your STEM account to keep project files, tool outputs and work in progress together. Sign-in opens Accounts, then returns you to the STEM workspace.
Team sites · Invitation-based
A place for invited STEM teams to tell their story and share progress. This program is taking shape; an adult organizer can contact us to discuss participation.
Review, print, improve
NPC checks mesh geometry and pocket openings, not structural strength. Review each output in your slicer and consider how the finished part will be used before printing.
Built by a family of lifelong learners.
Founded by the McDonald family, X-Ploy STEM grew from a learning journey spanning homeschooling from third grade through high school graduation, early college and hands-on projects. Robotics, rocketry, CAD, 3D printing and software gave us practical ways to explore ideas. Now we’re building tools that can help other learners keep asking, making and improving.
Explore together. Build confidence.
We’re building a place where families, educators and teams can learn by making. Start with a public tool and choose a project that fits your experience. For younger learners, a parent, guardian or educator should guide the activity and contact us about participation. Tool checks never replace supervision, safe equipment use or thoughtful review.
Tools that grow with curious learners.
Our long-term vision is a connected ecosystem of tools, projects and shared learning, from elementary school through college and beyond. We’re developing more ways to build and share, and exploring whether a future nonprofit structure and grant opportunities could help broaden access. These are goals we’re working toward, not established programs or confirmed funding.
Contact X-Ploy STEM
Tell us about the tools, projects or team support you’re interested in. For younger learners, please have a parent, guardian or educator get in touch. Keep your message focused on the project, and avoid sharing children’s full names, school details or other sensitive personal information.