Family and Consumer Science (FCS) educators from across Nebraska gathered with enthusiasm at Wayne State College’s Family & Consumer Science labs last week, ready to roll up their sleeves for a day filled with inspiration and practical learning. Armed with aprons and a shared passion for baking education, these educators took part in a hands-on workshop hosted by the Home Baking Association (HBA) and the Nebraska Department of Education.

The event, titled Build FCS Baking STEAM: Home to Career, embodied the mission of the Home Baking Association: to ensure that the tradition of baking is passed down to future generations. This immersive experience offered attendees the opportunity to explore innovative ways to incorporate baking into their curriculums, blending science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) with practical life skills.

Participants didn’t just learn about baking—they lived it. Through interactive experiments, hands-on practice, and, of course, tasting their delicious creations, these educators gained new insights into the art and science of baking. The lessons extended far beyond the mixing bowls, equipping teachers with strategies to inspire their students to see baking as both a practical life skill and a potential career path.

“The energy in the room was incredible,” said Sharon Davis, who led the workshop on behalf of the Home Baking Association. “Seeing these educators embrace baking as a teaching tool and envisioning how they’ll carry these lessons back to their classrooms is a reminder of why we do this work. Baking is about more than just recipes; it’s about nurturing creativity, problem-solving, and connections.”

Support from HBA’s dedicated partners and members played a vital role in bringing this event to life. Their contributions helped ensure educators walked away with resources, confidence, and renewed excitement to engage their students in baking. Special thanks go to Sharon Davis from HBA; Aaron Clanton from Kansas State University Bakery Science; past HBA award winner Marla Prusa; Carol Erwin of Wayne State College; Jenna and Shelby from Rodelle; and Miranda Bright from the Nebraska Department of Education. Each brought their expertise and passion, making the event a memorable and impactful experience.

The workshop’s title, Home to Career, reflects its broader purpose: to illuminate the pathways from home baking to professional opportunities. By equipping educators with the tools and inspiration they need, the Home Baking Association continues its mission to perpetuate baking traditions, foster creativity, and open doors to potential careers in the food and baking industries. For these Nebraska educators, the events of the day were a chance to build connections, hone their skills, and spark ideas that will enrich their classrooms and empower their students.

As the Home Baking Association looks ahead to its 102nd year, events like these reaffirm the organization’s commitment to ensuring that baking remains a cherished tradition and a valuable skill, passed down from generation to generation. After all, every great baker starts with a teacher—and the HBA is proud to support the educators who inspire the bakers of tomorrow.