Mary Rinehart is the President and CEO of 1st Maker Space, LLC. She is passionate about creating opportunities for learners through career, technical, STEM, and robotics training. Mary Recently served the Indiana Department of Education as Engineering and Technology Specialist. She managed the STEM-certified process as well as Indiana Academic Standards revision for engineering, computer science, and IT. She has five years of teaching experience, holds an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Educational Technology, and has served on several STEM-focused boards. 

We talk about equipment that goes into a makerspace, from furniture to supplies and tools. Mary shares insights on how your school can get a makerspace, and her company even offers 3D models for proposals and grant writing. We also learn some of the benefits of having training that bridges the gap between academics and hands-on experience. Mary shares real-life stories of how offering a different learning environment can help kids who may have been struggling thrive. 

Episode Highlights: 

[03:26] Makerspaces are magical places where hands-on learning bridges the gap between theoretical and practical knowledge. It brings joy back to learning and allows students to apply academic content in the makerspace.

[06:21] Mary shares an example of a school with a small makerspace used by multiple classes. There was 3D printing, computer science, and they even worked with cardboard and paper. Everything they were doing in the classroom is applied in the makerspace. The learning was adapted to the school culture.

[08:45] Some schools will have a makerspace managed by a specific teacher for a subject or area and other schools let the makerspace be a drop-in for all of the teachers to use.

[10:20] Building a maker culture starts early on. Start small with more hands-on learning. 1st Maker Space can help with planning a space and recommending products. They can also help with grant writing. There is also funding available from multiple sources.

[20:10] Mary's son has ADHD. He is engaged in the makerspace. Another struggling student made a car out of cardboard and used a laser cutter and 3D CAD. He ended up leading others and making a great car and then helping other students. 

Resources & Links Related to this Episode