UC offers first-ever Maker Break intensive

This year, students opting for a Cincinnati spring break staycation can bring home some unique souvenirs — objects they’ve crafted themselves in the University of Cincinnati Ground Floor Makerspace.

Between March 13 to 17, for the first time, the Makerspace is offering a Maker Break intensive for students. Located inside the 1819 Innovation Hub, the space will host a variety of maker activities and certifications.

“The Maker Break intensive is a fun way to bring students together during spring break to develop skills using tools and equipment that they might not have access to otherwise, and to forge collaborations to address problems that matter,” said Benjamin Jones, manager of the UC Ground Floor Makerspace.

All UC students are eligible to join in on the fun, including:

• Students with some maker interest but who have not had time to explore
• College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) and College of Engineering and Applied Science (CEAS) students who need a certification to complete a capstone project
• Any group that wants to learn a new skill or bring a creation to life

While the maker camp is focused on students, non-students also may participate. All participants may sign up for one, or as many programs as they like.

Combining technology, creativity, and hands-on experiences contributes to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and problem-solving skills.

"It is a great opportunity for students to get up to speed with a wide range of equipment as quickly as possible,” Jones said.

Make-and-take workshop activities during Maker Break will include:

• Flexible molds
• Wood charcuterie boards

A full schedule of the most popular certifications also will be packed into the week, such as: 

• Laser cutting
• Woodshop
• 3D scanning

Jones said any student looking for certifications in key areas to complete their capstone should register as soon as possible to reserve their spot.

As certification sessions fill up, Makerspace staff will add more to the schedule.  Jones encouraged students to check back if an activity they want to sign up for is closed, in case another date becomes available. 

Featured image at top: Students weld in the UC Ground Floor Makerspace. Photo/Lucy Weaver, University of Cincinnati