Meet Cliff Cooper
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 real estate investment properties, renovations, and contracts.
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.
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 to 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 is the owner of Smart Way Solutions LLC, a business and education consulting firm since 2003. 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 to lead with confidence.
Together, this husband-and-wife duo, both trainers and leaders in their respective fields, have combined their expertise with integrating STEAM concepts and construction to create engaging, skill-building programs for children of all ages. Their mission is to inspire the next generation to gain confidence and skills they can carry with them through life as leaders and innovators.
They are co-authors to instructional content, children’s workbooks and a Book Series, called “Build and Discover,” STEAM in Construction.
