Introducing The Future Innovators Academy!

Update 10/20/2023: Workshops start this Sunday, details and sign up here!

A big part of our mission at Maker Works Community Workshops is the support and growth of small businesses. We’re fortunate to see companies like Saving Throw Pillows, Fun Exhibits, Erika Cross, Little Lake Tech (and many more) working in the shop every day!

Today we’re happy to announce a wonderful new opportunity to host Andi Sperry in her launch of The Future Innovators Academy (FIA), a fantastic new organization offering classes supporting kids & tech. Think microcontrollers, programming, lego robotics, and a whole lotta fun backed by an engineer (Andi) with accolades from NASA to the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

You can already sign kids up for classes with FIA that begin mid October. If you’re in the shop, expect to see future engineers and makers programming and working with 3D Printers, Lasers, and Electronics in our Common and Conference Rooms.

Read on for additional information from Andi Sperry, engineer and founder of Future Innovators Academy!

About Andi: From the depths of space with NASA's ISS missions to innovations in predictive maintenance for robotic systems, Andi's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Her diverse experiences have crystallized into one mission: unlocking the world of STEM for the next generation. Read More About Andi

Why FIA? At FIA, STEM isn't just a buzzword - it's a calling. We believe every child is a budding innovator, and our project-based programs are tailored to ensure they're not just learning, but thriving. Dive into an immersive STEM environment, driven by top-notch curriculum and Andi's unparalleled expertise.

Upcoming Classes: Ready to jumpstart your child's journey in STEM? Our next batch of classes is starting soon! Perfect for budding engineers, scientists, and tech enthusiasts. Don't miss out!

Enroll Now: Spaces are filling up quickly. Secure a spot for your child and let's build the future together. Enroll Here

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SHORT BIO:

Andi Sperry is a passionate engineer, educator, and the driving force behind The Future Innovators Academy. With a Master's in Nuclear Engineering from University of California Berkeley and a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering from George Washington University, her engineering prowess is evident in her contributions to NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center's RRM3 mission on the International Space Station and her work on JASPER at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Andi has also innovated predictive maintenance features for robotic systems at KLA-Tencor. Her diverse career spans from law enforcement with the U.S. Coast Guard to pioneering concepts for Mars missions. This wealth of experience fuels her mission to make advanced technology accessible to young learners at The Future Innovators Academy.

FIA Mission Statement:
At Future Innovators Academy, our mission is to empower the innovators of tomorrow. Through hands-on, project-based programs, we demystify STEM, making it both accessible and understandable to all. Our belief lies in every child's potential, and our goal is to create an environment for exploration, learning, and growth. Every curriculum and teaching methodology we use at the academy has been shaped by our commitment to high-quality instruction and the founder’s extensive background in the STEM field.

Maker Works Celebrates 12 Years!

Maker Works Celebrates 12 Years in Washtenaw County with New Programming Initiative

Ann Arbor, MI, August 31, 2023 — Maker Works, a Community Maker Space, announces today, its NEW and transformative programming initiative to mark 12 years serving Washtenaw County residents. The initiative, which launches this month in August is just one reason to come out and celebrate at their 12th Anniversary Open House Celebration on September 17th from 2-5pm. With LIVE Demos and casual tours, Maker Works aims to feature their plans to deliver unique, transitional learning opportunities to the local community for the remainder of 2023 and beyond.

Throughout the past 12 years, Maker Works has been a key resource for residents and surrounding communities, providing a workspace and tool repository for members, as well as serving as an incubator for several small businesses in Washtenaw County. The new programming initiative seeks to further enrich the Maker Works community by introducing a broader range of creative programming designed to be more accessible to all.

The updated programming emphasizes the following experiences:
Safety Classes, Watch & Learns, Make & Takes, Bring Your Own Project opportunities, and Educational Resources and presentations. These innovative experiences are designed to accommodate individuals of various skill levels and interests, making the maker space more accessible and engaging to all.

"Our new initiative is about inspiring everyone, from the curious beginner to the seasoned hobbyist, to participate in our maker community," says Executive Director Josh Williams. "We're creating opportunities for anyone who wants to create, learn, or share their skills. We're also opening up opportunities for the public, our members, and staff to pass down their knowledge teaching classes and earn extra income."

The new initiative is designed not only to cater to the traditional "member" demographic but also to accommodate Experience Seekers, Learners, DIY’ers, Hobbyists, Object Makers, Gifters, Groups, Students, and Professionals alike. This inclusivity represents Maker Works' commitment to fostering a diverse and vibrant maker community and positive culture of welcoming.

About Maker Works

Maker Works, a 501c3 non-profit organization, is more than just a community-based workshop; it's a thriving hub of creativity and innovation nestled in the heart of Ann Arbor. Since 2011, it has served as an invaluable resource, empowering local residents and the surrounding communities with an inclusive workspace and an extensive tool repository.

At its core, Maker Works is committed to fostering an environment that is accessible and empowering for individuals of all skill levels. Driven by this commitment, it continuously expands its unique and engaging programming. The aim is not only to ignite creativity but also to stimulate lifelong learning and foster meaningful collaboration within the community.

As Maker Works evolves, it remains dedicated to its mission: To democratize access to the tools of innovation, ensuring that everyone, from the budding hobbyist to the seasoned maker, has the resources and opportunities they need to bring their ideas to life.