Learning and innovation skills such as creativity, critical thinking and problem solving, communication, and collaboration can be fostered through learning about STEAM role models. Using selected picture book biographies, teachers can help their elementary students visualize the experiences of these individuals as they developed and refined ideas or products that addressed needs. The nature of picture book biographies, the unique vocabulary of each STEAM content area, and the use of language arts strategies can promote access and equity as students examine issues and challenges faced by previous generations. They can question and begin to form their own STEAM identities as they consider the contributions they can make during their lifetime.