Buildup STEAM embarked on its journey in 2017 when visionary brothers John and Tom McInerney decided to dream big. Fueled by John's fervor for building and creating, he was inspired to empower others to step away from the stress and chaos of the world through the medium of play. With seven years of experience teaching kids at diverse engineering, robotics, and STEAM workshops, John's mission became clear: to bring the joy of creation to those who needed it the most.

John initiated his mission by volunteering at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, introducing LEGOs for in-hospital events. Collaborating with Child Life, they organized a LEGO party, providing patients and families with an opportunity to escape their rooms, socialize, and engage in play together. This groundbreaking inpatient event hosted over 100 people, marking a significant milestone for the hospital. Encouraged by its success, John collaborated with the Patient Technology Program and Infection Prevention Team to establish the Buildup STEAM bedside robotics program. This initiative aimed to extend creative opportunities to patients who were not able to leave their room to attend larger events. In the inaugural year at Mott, John directly impacted the lives of 300+ children at the bedside.