In this episode, we sit down with Connor and Greg from 10Bitworks Makerspace, San Antonio’s largest member-supported nonprofit makerspace. They break down what a makerspace actually is, why people join for the tools but stay for the community, and how mentorship makes big equipment like CNC routers, laser cutters, and 3D printers approachable and safe.

Connor shares how a shuttle bus conversion project led him to the space and how he learned metalworking from other members to build a custom solar roof rack. Greg shares how he found 10Bitworks Makerspace through a simple DIY project and now uses his marketing background to help keep the organization thriving, including fundraising and community outreach.

They also talk candidly about the realities of running a 100 percent volunteer organization, the need to move into a more comfortable space, and how supporters can help them reach a fundraising goal of up to $45,000.

Host: 

Zac Brown: "The Non-Profit Guy"

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/

Guests: 

Connor Doherty: Board members at 10Bitworks Makerspace

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omnipassion/

Greg Thibodeaux: Board members at 10Bitworks Makerspace

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregthibodeaux/

Website: https://10bitworks.com/

Find Us: 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50nKlDy81jHuoobIFLwiHy

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-giving/id1803474427

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBoostChannel

Website: https://theboost.fm/beyond-giving/

What you will learn

• What a makerspace is and why it works like a tool library and community workshop
 • Why mentorship matters when members have access to powerful equipment
 • What a CNC router is and what it can help you build
 • How 10Bitworks Makerspace operates as a 501c3 and why that helps long-term stability
 • Membership options and what 24-hour access means in real life
 • What it takes to move a makerspace and why climate control is a big deal
 • How volunteers can make a real impact beyond just using the tools

Membership and pricing mentioned

• Individual membership: $75 per month
 • Household membership: $100 per month
 • Business membership: $150 per month
 • Access: 24/7 for trained members using tools they are cleared on

Support the move and equipment upgrades

They estimate the move at about $17,000 and are working toward a larger fundraising goal to cover moving costs, upgrades, and breathing room.

Donate: https://10bitworks.com/donate

Visit and tours

Weekends are best, generally Saturday and Sunday mornings through early afternoon. Members can also call ahead and leave a message if nobody picks up, and the team is responsive through the website.

About 10Bitworks Makerspace

10Bitworks Makerspace is a member-supported 501 (c) (3) makerspace in San Antonio offering access to tools and equipment like wood and metal shop tools, 3D printing, CNC routing, laser cutting, and more, supported by a hands-on, mentor-driven community.