Dr. Crystal Swinton Cooper
Is a passionate educator, leader, and advocate for innovative learning. She brings 24 years of experience in early childhood education and the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) concepts for classrooms. She has dedicated her career to empowering families, educators, and professionals to understand the importance of integrating STEM/STEAM education early in life. She has owned Smart Way Solutions a business and education firm since 2004. For over 10 years, Dr. Cooper has designed training programs that foster skill-building, leadership, and career readiness for teachers, instructors and parents. Dr. Cooper’s doctoral research was on the Role of In-Service Training on Teachers’ Perceptions for Being Intentional with Integrating STEAM Concepts into Their Classroom Environments. Her mission is to equip educators and students with the tools needed to be creative, innovative and lead with confidence.
Mr. Cliff Cooper
Is a skilled trades professional, mentor, and advocate for career-focused education, with 30 years of hands-on experience in project management and renovations. His expertise in the trades field has allowed him to mentor aspiring builders, journeymen, and young professionals, helping them gain the knowledge and practical skills necessary for long-term success. He is the owner of CAC Kitchen, Floor and Paint Solutions and Associates providing project management over investment properties, renovations, and contracts for more than 20 years.
Mr. Cooper plays a key role in developing real-world learning experiences for children and educators. His passion lies in bridging the gap between education and industry, ensuring that young learners and future tradespeople gain early exposure to pre-construction skills, problem-solving techniques, and hands-on STEAM experiences.
Together, this husband-and-wife duo—both trainers and leaders in their respective fields—have combined their expertise in the integration of STEM concepts and construction to create engaging, skill-building programs. Their mission is to empower children, students, families, and educators to embrace STEM/STEAM, construction skills to pave the way for a new generation of builders and innovators.
They are co-authors of Developing a Trainer Mindset and a series of workbooks and books for children on Building and Discovering with STEAM in Construction.