Nation of Makers, a new non-profit organization, is working with the maker community to give access to spaces, tools, and support to enable all those who want to make, the ability to make.
FabLab Tacoma’s Stephen Tibbitts and Billy Davis were recently invited to Washington, D.C. to meet with entrepreneurs, educators, and community leaders to create the non-profit. As the grassroots Maker Movement has gained ground with impacts to the economy, education, manufacturing, and technology it became clear that a national initiative was needed. Support from the White House, including a shout out from President Obama, has provided momentum to quickly act.
“Giving more Americans the opportunity to make, invent and create is critical to our future,” said Tom Kalil, Deputy Director of the White House Office of Science and Technogy Polidy. “Making can inspire more young people to excel in STEM education, promote entrepreneurship in manufacturing, and empower more people to solve problems in their communities.”
Locally and globally, Makers, are creating new industries that support their communities. Recently with the celebration of Global Entrepreneurship Week, FabLab Tacoma, celebrated local makers and recognized their contribution to the “Made in Tacoma” movement and the Makers movement worldwide.
FabLab Tacoma provides a regular schedule of classes and workshops to train members and the general public. These workshops focus on design and developing skills on machines and software that drives them. FabLab works with schools and libraries to develop curriculum, provide training for educators, and sell and support 3D printers.
In addition, FabLab provides classes and access to machinery that ranges from CNC router tables and laser cutters, to metal and woodworking equipment.
On the web: www.fablabtacoma.com
– FabLab Tacoma
