I have been 3D printing both in my middle school classroom and at home for nearly 10 years. My biggest challenge and experience came in the the Spring of 2020 when, like many, I felt powerless when it came to the Covid-19 Pandemic and wanted to find a way to help. When I saw on the news that PPE, especially face shields, were in short supply I found my calling. I worked with a group of fellow teachers to bring the 3D printers sitting dormant in our local schools to our houses to create our own “printer farms” capable of printing in mass quantities these desperately needed supplies. With 10 3D printers running in my office and the help of several students, we 3D printed and donated over 3500 face shields to nurses and doctors in need throughout the United States. This experience truly taught me the power that a group of makers can have to change the world. 

No live meetings, and maybe some time outside of class.