Much of the responsibility of improving science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education has fallen upon teachers. However, it is often just assumed that they have the tools and skills needed to fulfil that responsibility. Dr Pankaj Sharma a courtesy professor at Purdue University and his colleagues are hoping to address this through their informal summer program the ‘Duke Energy Academy at Purdue’, or ‘DEAP’, that is equipping teachers to deliver engaging and authentic STEM learning experiences.