Our Instructors
Passionate educators and industry professionals dedicated to bringing real-world STEM experience into the classroom.
Jason R. Allen
Callsign: "DIGI"
Founder · STEM Academy at Thorn Hill
Jason is a seasoned professional with a strong background in both the operational and marketing sides of small businesses, paired with a proven record of technical innovation in CNC machining and 3D printing. His real edge goes far beyond technical skill — Jason has an innate gift for communication, vision-building, and fostering structures that help ideas take flight.
Before founding the STEM Academy, Jason spent years transforming an innovative high school program in Fayette County, developing the "5 P's" framework — Proposal, Pattern-Making, Prototyping, Production, and Presentation — to guide students through every phase of turning ideas into reality.
Jason's knack for forging partnerships has brought in support from major players like the University of Kentucky Solar Car Team and Microsoft. He took hands-on STEM education to Unalakleet, Alaska in Summer 2025, proving innovation shouldn't be limited by geography.
Unalakleet, Alaska STEM Camp
Jason took hands-on drone education to one of the most remote parts of the country.
More Talented Educators
Arlene Crabtree
Educational Excellence
Arlene Crabtree is an experienced educator and community leader dedicated to shaping the future of education. She reside…
- Master of Arts in Education
- Teacher Leader and a Rank 1
Laura Driskell
Homeschool Liaison
Laura, a lifelong resident of Frankfort, Kentucky, is a dedicated homeschool mom to three adventurous boys. With a deep…
- Bachelors in Elementary Education from UK
Bryan Parker
Engineering and Tech
A native of Frankfort, Bryan is passionate about unlocking the potential of people from all walks of life. As a voluntee…
- Master of Science in Civil Engineering
Dr. Sam Saarinen
AI and Machine Learning
Dr. Sam Saarinen is an entrepreneur and researcher working at the intersection of education and technology. He is the CE…
- Doctorate from Brown University
- Eagle Scout
- University of Kentucky
Chris Robinson
Career Navigation
Chris Robinson is an educator, workforce development specialist, and community innovation leader with more than three de…
- University of Alaska Anchorage
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Kentucky Native American Heritage Commission
Ronald Purvis
Certified Drone Pilot
Ronald Purvis brings over three decades of expertise in the architectural and engineering industry, shaping his career w…
- Spencerian College
- Eagle Scout
- FAA Part 107 Certified
Ready to Learn from the Best?
Our instructors bring real-world experience to every session. Enroll today and start your STEM journey.