Get in touch with us at info@new.com
ckingknowledge Institute
(pronounced seeking knowledge) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity and a
Youth Development and Robotics Academy
in Southfield, Michigan
Where Kids Gain Confidence by Solving Real Problems, Not Memorizing Answers.
Our Why
We created ckingknowledge Institute for one reason. We wanted young people in Metro Detroit to have a place where they could work through hard things, step by step, and feel proud of what they accomplished. When a student builds something that finally works after a few tries, you can see the change in them right away. Their shoulders relax. Their eyes light up. They realize they can figure things out.
Our robotics and engineering programs help kids practice real skills that matter in everyday life: problem-solving, communication, patience, teamwork, and independent thinking. Students learn through hands-on challenges that feel meaningful to them, and families see the difference at home and at school.
We welcome students from Southfield, Detroit, Oak Park, Royal Oak, Ferndale, Birmingham, and the greater Southeast Michigan community.
What We Teach
Skills That Help Kids Grow in School and in Life
Students learn to:
-
Break down problems using the engineering process
-
Talk through ideas with teammates
-
Try, adjust, and try again without fear
-
Stay engaged because they can see their progress
-
Take pride in completing something that once felt difficult
-
Strengthen creativity, focus, and personal responsibility
Many kids today are unsure how to begin when something feels challenging. Our environment gives them opportunities to practice working through obstacles in a supportive, hands on setting. They start to realize that progress comes from effort, not perfection.
The Challenges Midwest Families See Every Day
Across Southeast Michigan, parents share similar concerns. Kids spend more time behind screens and less time communicating face to face. Some feel overwhelmed in school or struggle to stay engaged. Others avoid challenges because they’re worried about being wrong.
In our space, students:
-
Build projects that give purpose to the work
-
Talk and collaborate in natural, low pressure ways
-
Use reading, writing, and math in real engineering tasks
-
Stay focused because they want to see their robot succeed
-
Gain exposure to tools and ideas they rarely see in school
Educators across the region want students who can think critically, communicate clearly, and collaborate well. Our program gives students the practice needed to develop those habits over time.
Why Families and Schools Choose Us
Representation That Connects With Kids
Our team includes African American engineers and professionals who reflect the communities we serve. Students see mentors who understand their experiences and who show them real possibilities in engineering and technology.
Engineers Who Care About Young People
Our staff includes mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, robotics specialists, data professionals, and entrepreneurs. Students learn from people who use these skills every day. They also get guidance from adults who genuinely want to help them grow.
Real Work That Builds Real Confidence
Students build robots, code behaviors, wire circuits, and solve engineering challenges in teams. They can see their progress immediately. Each small win builds motivation and helps them trust their own thinking.
A Welcoming and Creative Space
Sessions take place inside our Afrofuturism art gallery. The artwork, colors, and music create a calm, inspiring environment where students feel comfortable trying new things. Many parents say their child becomes more open, talkative, and focused in this space.
Clear Pathways to Future Opportunities
Students hear from local professionals, meet community mentors, and explore what engineering and technology careers actually look like. They gain insight into future pathways they can pursue in high school, college, or training programs.
Programs for Schools, Churches, and Organizations
We bring STEM experiences to schools and youth groups across Southeast Michigan. Our offerings include assemblies, grade wide STEM days, multi session engineering units, after school programs, and teacher support. Everything is designed with real school constraints in mind so implementation is smooth and sustainable.
School teachers and school founders send their children to this school.
