ABOUT ROCKFORD MAKERSPACE

Rockford MakerSpace is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community workshop and laboratory. The space provides an environment for tinkerers, artists, engineers, designers, machinists, hobbyists, programmers, makers, and thinkers to collaborate and have access to tools and learning opportunities to pursue their interests.

The space is for…

…tinkerers and builders who would love to have a shop at home, but for lack of space can’t set something up in the apartment, condo, etc., where they live.

…inventors, entrepreneurs, and start-ups who need to develop and prototype their ideas.

…artists who need access to specialized equipment and instruction on how to build their vision.

…educators who want to learn about and incorporate STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Arts and Math) into their curriculum.

…small businesses that need access to equipment for new product development or other occasional needs.

…retirees looking for a place to take their hobby to the next level — or looking for a new hobby.

…those who want to learn about and explore the intersection of technology, manufacturing, and the arts.

…hobbyists to learn from and collaborate with others who have similar interests (robotics, model building, electronics, automation, woodworking… any creative pursuit).

…individuals interested in learning new technical and manufacturing skills to make themselves more marketable in today’s job market.

Benefits to the community

Get people interested and active in manufacturing and technology careers

Provide tools to tinkerers of all ages to which they might not normally have access

Provide the tools and skills to anyone who wants to make sophisticated and neat things

Facilitate development of products that could develop into new companies in our region

Provide a collaborative environment to train for sought-after workplace skills

Classes

Classes and workshops on how to safely use tools and equipment are a key component of the space. They are typically geared to quickly bringing a complete novice up to speed, and be member-organized and taught, meaning the limitation is only the know-how and interests of the membership. Classes include: basic woodworking, electronics, programming, welding, soldering, machining, 3d CAD/CAM, 3d printing, ceramics/pottery, etc.

Funding

To help keep costs low, the space is member-driven. In addition to paying dues, members are expected to donate their time to help maintain the facility and equipment, teach other members skills they have mastered, and participate in educational outreach to the greater Rockford community. A fundamental goal is to make learning opportunities and membership accessible to everyone, regardless of financial means.

To realize the goals of having space available to everyone and to have the resources to actively pursue STEAM educational outreach in the community, the space also seeks donations and grants from community businesses and organizations to help defray equipment and operating costs.