A Unique Approach

At large, STEM fields are not representative of the nation's demographics. This coupled with the influx of high technology companies arriving in the Midwest, and central Ohio in general leads to an issue where:

• Typically underrepresented demographics get left behind.

• There aren't enough STEM professionals locally, forcing a brain drain in the region.

• Those who do not have STEM skills do not go into high-paying STEM careers and jobs.

It is critical that individuals from all backgrounds in the central Ohio region are educated, trained, and able to work in the flourishing high-technology sector, while home growing and strengthening an interest in STEM in youth and the local community. Makerspace Central targets individuals and populations with limited access to STEM courses, facilities, and instructors and strives to ensure people from all backgrounds are not left behind.

Simply put, it's in our name. Makerspace. Central.

A makerspace is a facility that is well-equipped with the tools, resources, and expertise to help individuals "make" or build whatever their minds come up with (think 3D printers, soldering irons, computers with design software, hammers, hand tools, etc.). Makerspace Central replicates the makerspace environment in informal learning environments across the region through our culturally-relevant STEM learning experiences - right to where the students are.

Our use of a cohort and hands-on, project-based approach sees teams of students working together to build and cement STEM concepts, all while cultivating a STEM interest for their personal and future career growth. This hands-on education from instructors from a diverse range of backgrounds allow for a more inclusive approach to inspiring students from all age-ranges.

We're hard at work building out our makerspace facility to help empower our students to build and achieve what they can dream!

The Makerspace Central facility and approach provides an excellent environment for informal STEM learning in a highly enriching afterschool environment all while providing a third space for the community.

Where applicable, participants of the Makerspace Central services and products can expect to walk away with:

1. An age-appropriate understanding of STEM principles

2. An age-appropriate application and understanding of the scientific method and the engineering design process taught by real world experts

3. Understanding of culturally-relevant technology and its impacts on society

4. Refinement of critical thinking ability

5. Refinement of mathematical skills

6. Refinement of ability to work in groups