When we speak of education, we often mention textbooks, chalkboards, and classroom lectures. In the present era, where technology and innovation are at the forefront, learning environments need to reflect the rapidly advancing world. Recognizing this need, Makers Mission, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and educating young minds, recently achieved an extraordinary feat: creating a makerspace for students at Rio Grande Academy of Fine Arts (RioGAFA).

Makers Mission and its generous partners have come together to foster creativity and innovation by creating state-of-art 3D printing facilities at RioGAFA. The newly built Makerspace provides students free access to resources that they previously could only imagine. At the heart of this project are contributions from six key donors: Polymaker, Lulzbot, COEX3D, Justprintitabq, and a collaboration between BuildersMark and Sunlu.

Polymaker, a global leader in 3D printing technology, has graciously donated 60 spools of filament. COEX3D donated 10 spools, and Justprintitabq donated some spools and other printer accessories. These generous contributions will ensure the students have a substantial supply of materials, enabling them to explore the limitless potential of 3D printing.

Lulzbot, a trailblazer in desktop 3D printing, has donated 5 of their Lulzbot Mini printers, empowering students to bring their creative ideas to life. Known for their reliability and ease-of-use, the Lulzbot Minis will undoubtedly become instrumental tools in the students’ creative journey.

BuildersMark and Sunlu provided a joint donation of a Sunlu S8. The Sunlu S8 is a high-performance 3D printer that will provide the students with an opportunity to work on complex projects and further push the boundaries of their creativity.

The Makerspace at RioGAFA is more than just a room filled with high-tech gadgets; it is a transformative learning environment. For students who have not previously had access to a 3D print lab, this Makerspace is not just an opportunity but a life-changing experience.

Walking into the Makerspace for the first time, the students’ reactions were priceless. Their eyes lit up; they felt a mix of awe, excitement, and curiosity on their faces. This space was their gateway to a whole new world of possibilities. Each filament and each printer represented a new opportunity to create, learn, and grow.

Makers Mission and its partners are not just enhancing the educational experience; they are shaping the future. They are nurturing the next generation of innovators, creators, and problem-solvers who will leverage these newfound skills to impact their community and, potentially, the world.

Makers Mission would like to express its deepest gratitude to Polymaker, Lulzbot, COEX3D, JustprintitABQ, BuildersMark, and Sunlu for their incredible contributions. These companies have shown their commitment to supporting education and demonstrating the powerful impact of collective action. Their belief in Makers Mission’s vision has made this dream a reality for the students at Rio Grande Academy of Fine Arts.

Makers Mission will continue to work with RioGAFA and any school we have supported to ensure that they continue to grow these spaces and provide them with the tools necessary to support the growing needs of students. With our partner RioGAFA, we will continue to support educators long-term by providing training and maintaining the printers moving forward. RioGAFA can also continue to grow the Makerspace through additional donations and financial support from the community.

The Makerspace at RioGAFA is a victory for education, for technology, and most importantly, for the students. This success serves as a shining example, lighting the path towards a future where every student, regardless of their background, has access to the resources and opportunities that they need to succeed.