STEAM Learning Finds a New Home in CT
“Yankee Ingenuity” is alive and well in Connecticut! As I wrote in my book, Naugatuck Valley Textile Industry, “The creative spark that inventors and investors shared formed the foundation upon which factories flourished and railroads were built.” The same ingenuity that historically fueled the textile industry in our state will find a home at MakerspaceCT a “springboard for innovation, and a new way to boost careers and interest in traditional and advanced manufacturing, technology, and hardware development.”
MakerspaceCT is part of the “Maker” movement which is creating “renewed interest for both students and adults in critical STEAM learning (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics)” and application. “MakerspaceCT is currently developing a 15,000sf commercial space in the Historic Colt Building that will be the headquarters for making and innovation in Connecticut.
“It will have an extensive selection of equipment and tools available for use by the public.” said Bryan Patton MakerspaceCT co-founder, who is trained as a mechanical engineer. “CNC and manual milling and turning machines, a complete wood shop, welding shop, plastics, glassblowing, a water cutter, pottery, electronics, robotics, fiber arts and industrial sewing, digital fabrication, metal fabrication and even a tool lending library will all be available.”
MakerspaceCT “will be a workshop and a playground for innovators and inventors.” said co-founder Devra Sisitsky. “Not only will they have access to equipment that they wouldn’t have at home, there is a wonderful opportunity for collaboration. The possibilities are endless.”
To launch the project, which will open its doors in 2017, Bryan Patton and co-founder Devra Sisitsky are hosting a special event on May 5, 2017 from 6:30-10:00p.m. in the Colt Building at 120 Huyshope Avenue in Hartford. Proceeds from the event, dubbed “Make A Difference” by the founders, will help to fund construction of the new space. The event will feature live music from The Colbys, demonstrations from makers, artisans and craftspeople, a silent auction featuring local artists, tours of the Colt Dome, plus refreshments and cocktails provided by The Bees Knees, Hanging Hills Brewing Co., Hog River Brewing Co. & Hartford Flavor Co.
Tickets must be purchased before April 25, 2017 at Eventbrite
MakerspaceCT is dedicated to organizing, promoting and enabling Making efforts in CT and New England. Our mission includes opening a 15,000 SF Makerspace facility in Hartford to support entrepreneurial activity, provide low cost technical and artistic classes, and engage the community in Making. More information can be found at www.makerspacect.com and www.facebook.com/makerspacect/.
Mary Ruth, Owner of United Sewing and Design has over 30 years experience in the manufacturing of products by sewing and is author of “Industry Sewing Construction Methods” http://amzn.to/2yMxMmk. Her focus is on design, entrepreneurship; social enterprise; the connections between the environment, the apparel industry, and manufacturing; and how owners can leverage artistic methods to benefit their business.
