by Nicholas Snyder, Makerspace Manager, Fishers Parks and Recreation
Fishers Parks’ newest facility is a 15,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art Makerspace located in the Hub & Spoke building in west Fishers. Through unique programming and a public makerspace, Fishers Parks offers tools and tinkering for the community to create without limits.
A “makerspace” is a facility that provides tools, technology, and experience to make it easy for members to explore their creative side for personal or entrepreneurial projects.
At Maker Playground, adult members have access to a full wood shop, power tools, hand tools, 3D printers, laptops, and a variety of CNC machines including a 4’x 8′ CNC router and a laser cutter. A full metal shop and 4′ x 8′ plasma table will be available soon. Members from Fishers and the surrounding area are currently utilizing the space to create furniture, crafts, 3D printed prototypes, and products for their small businesses. You can also sign up for classes on woodworking and CNC routing.
In addition to member access and community classes for adults, Fishers Parks’ Maker Playground offers a variety of summer camps and classes for young makers, including Robotics 101, Foundational Engineering, and Lincoln’s Lego League.
Through a partnership with Hamilton Southeastern schools, every HSE 5th grader attends two study trips at Maker Playground where Teacher-in-Residence Jennifer Suskovich, enhances STEM curriculum and hands-on learning, utilizing the resources in the Maker Playground and along the Nickel Plate Trail.
For more information on Maker Playground, stop by for a tour Mondays from 10am – 7pm at the Hub & Spoke building at 8100 E 106th St. You can also visit Maker Playground online at fishersmpg.com, @maker_playground on Instagram and @fishersmakerplayground on Facebook
