Inside the 2025 Seed to STEM’s Chicago Immersive Experience
A visit to Midwest Groundcovers and Midwest Trading on Day 3 of the Seed to STEM Chicago Immersive Experience. | Seed Your Future and Garden Media Group
Earlier this month, Seed Your Future hosted the Seed to STEM 2025 Cohort in Chicago for a week of professional development workshops, industry immersion experiences, and networking opportunities.
Impact Field – Turf Management
The 2025 Seed to STEM program launched at Impact Field, home of the Chicago Dogs, where educators got a behind-the-scenes look at professional turf management, from soil science and irrigation systems to turf repair techniques. Highlights included personal stories from Ball Horticultural Company interns whose careers began through Seed Your Future, and insights from Broch Martindale of Corteva Agriscience, who helped connect classroom learning to careers in horticulture. The day set the stage for a week of hands-on experiences linking plant science to real-world opportunities.
“Seed to STEM is how we make a change in the industry. For every grower asking, ‘Why should I be involved or donate?’ the impact of this program is why,” says Martindale. “I’m always shouting from the rooftops about how amazing Seed Your Future is, and the truth is, they haven’t seen anything yet.”
Exploring Innovation at Ball Horticultural Company
On Day 2 of Seed to STEM, educators spent the day at Ball Horticultural Company, touring departments like plant breeding, logistics, and seed production while learning firsthand how innovation and collaboration bring plants to market. They explored topics from genetics and pest management to AI and automation, and were inspired by the campus design and its role in community engagement. A highlight was hearing directly from Anna and Susannah Ball, whose leadership and passion for the industry left a lasting impression, capping off a day filled with insight, inspiration, and connection.
A First Look at Large-Scale Horticulture
On Day 3 of Seed to STEM, educators toured Midwest Groundcovers and Midwest Trading, many experiencing a commercial nursery and greenhouse for the first time. They explored large-scale plant production from propagation to distribution, gaining insights into irrigation design, soil composition, and how STEM disciplines drive horticultural success. The day highlighted the industry’s complexity and cross-disciplinary nature, giving teachers powerful real-world connections to share with their students.
Behind the Scenes of the Floral Industry
On the afternoon of Day 3, Seed to STEM participants explored the floral supply chain at Kennicott Brothers, a 144-year-old cut flower wholesaler. Teachers toured climate-controlled coolers, learned about international flower logistics, and gained a deeper appreciation for the science and strategy behind floriculture. Highlights included a surprise visit from NBA star Derrick Rose and a hands-on floral design session, offering both inspiration and a creative look into careers in retail floristry.
Green and Growing Gala
The third day of Seed to STEM wrapped with a vibrant evening gala at the Penthouse at Hyde Park, celebrating the program’s second year and the growing reach of Seed Your Future. Guests heard inspiring remarks from founding volunteer Dr. John Dole, supporter Anna Ball, and participating educators who shared how the program is transforming classrooms and careers. With Gatsby-inspired floral centerpieces crafted by teachers and stories of real-world impact, the event brought together educators, industry leaders, and new allies to celebrate the mission and momentum of Seed Your Future.
Zen Gardens and Green Industry Experts Lunch
The final day of the 2025 Seed to STEM program centered on the healing power of plants, beginning with a hands-on horticultural therapy session led by Kelly Warnick, where teachers created their own zen gardens to support student wellness. The day continued with “Lunch & Learn” sessions, offering informal conversations and presentations from industry professionals that highlighted diverse horticulture careers and classroom connections. It was a meaningful close to a week filled with inspiration, innovation, and practical tools for educators.
The program concluded with teachers revisiting and refining their career-focused lesson plans, equipped with fresh inspiration and resources from the week.
“We packed a tremendous amount into this four-day experience,” explains Jazmin Albarran, Executive Director of Seed Your Future. “But with so much to explore in the world of horticulture, we know we’ve only just scratched the surface.”
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