You don’t have to run a business out of the shop to reap the many benefits of a shared workspace, and today’s featured maker proves just that. Meet Anthony Witcher, a veteran member, superstar volunteer, and gadgeteer extraordinaire. Not only can you find him creating new inventions in every area of the shop, you might also run into him as he’s helping with one of our events or even taking out the recycling. We’re grateful for all he does to make the shop a better place, so make sure to say hi and thanks when you see him around!
Anthony Witcher (He/Him)
Willis, MI
Hobbyist & Maker Works Volunteer
Pictured right: Anthony making an angled cut with a jig on the ReSaw in the woodshop.
Anthony’s self-described “latest weird mechanical gadget”, cut out and engraved on our Epilog Lasers!
What can you tell us about your areas of interest in making?
I like making mechanical things such as gears, robots and weird gadgets. I use CAD software like Fusion 360 for modeling and 3D printing. I also use various tools throughout the shop including the machine (metal) shop tools, 3D printer, and ShopBot CNC Router.
Anthony running tool demos for tours in the metal shop at our 2022 11th Anniversary Open House.
What is your relationship to Maker Works and how did you get involved with the shop?
I'm a Maker Works volunteer. My robotics club moved to Maker Works years ago when they offered space for meetings and various tools for making robots. Since my robotics club does not exist anymore, I have stayed on because it still offers space and tools for me to continue making things.
How has Maker Works, access to shared tools, and a shared community impacted you?
Maker Works has tools that aren’t affordable for individuals. They are available for communities who need to use tools that wouldn’t be practical to buy because they only need to use them once. Maker Works has helped me to make things with tools I would otherwise use only one or two times a year. That is better than having a once-in-a-while tool taking up space in my home.
Anthony demonstrating how the Tormach CNC Mill works via an “air path” during the 2022 Maker Works 11th Anniversary Open House.
What would you say to others about your experiences with Maker Works and why is it a valuable part of the community?
The shop is a good place to hang out. People are friendly and share their work. I get to see their work in process, meet interesting people who come and go along with their projects, and meet people who like to come and socialize. Maker Works also has some expensive and large tools available for the community. As a hobbyist, I feel Maker Works has allowed me to create things without meeting specified industrial objectives.
Talented and generous members like Anthony are the foundation of the Maker Works community! Thanks to their support, we can offer far more events and learning opportunities than our staff could on their own. Would you like to support the shop by volunteering? Sign up for our newsletter below and check the “Volunteers for Maker Works Events” box to get notified of future opportunities.