Touring the UW-Madison Makerspace showed us a wide range of areas, techniques, and machines including the sewing center, different 3D printing capabilities, the process of using CNC machines to mill highly precise parts, as well as metal and wood working capabilities.
One of the very rewarding things about the trip was the student reactions to what they saw:
“I need a hat hoop!!!!” The sewing section was exceptionally cool.
“We need a waterjet.” This thing was very impressive.
“There are so many potential projects!” We were all dreaming out loud as we saw the infinite options.
“How about we make a new building for our Makerspace?” The desire to expand had us dreaming.
“My cows!” We had to play games in the car for 3 hours each way and this was one of the games – claim the cows.
“The Madison Makerspace probably never has to play ‘find the thing.’” They were a model of organization, labeling, and documentation.
This opportunity has opened the path to so many new possibilities. Getting to experience the upper echelon of Makerspace facilities helped the staff and students to see not only what we could improve; we saw the ways in which we shine as a smaller community. The future is looking bright for our own Makerspace as we continue to evolve to meet the needs of our community.
Thank you to the Kabara Institute for sponsoring the trip and making it possible for us to see what is possible when we dream big. This kind of exploration can spark the imagination and provide a framework to understand how an idea can be turned into a real, tangible operation.
The Saint Mary’s Makerspace is housed in AH 229. As always, come visit the Anthony ‘59 and Sandra Adducci Family Makerspace to learn about our latest adventures in the world of innovation, entrepreneurship, and the creative process of making an impact.
