HANDS-ON INTERDISCIPLINARY EDUCATION

ABOUT

The MIX Maker Academy is a two-week immersive summer program designed for motivated high school students who want to explore advanced technologies, fabrication methods, and creative problem-solving in a university makerspace environment.

Hosted in the MIX Makerspace and Media Lab, the program introduces students to a wide range of professional tools and technologies used in engineering, design, robotics, and digital media production.

Participants will rotate through equipment stations, complete hands-on workshops, and develop both skill-building projects and larger interdisciplinary projects that integrate STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics).

Students will work closely with MIX staff and mentors while learning how a professional makerspace operates.

By the end of the program, students will leave with:

• Multiple small fabrication projects
• Two larger integrated design projects
• Hands-on experience with advanced tools and technologies
• A multimedia blog portfolio documenting their work

6 Staff Mentors

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Hands-On Workshops

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6 Staff Mentors · Hands-On Workshops · ·

Our Process

  • Geometric drawing of an outline square with sections divided by vertical, horizontal, and diagonal lines.

    Digital Fabrication

    • Laser cutting and engraving

    • CNC routing for wood and metal

    • Machining and precision fabrication

    • Vacuum forming and product prototyping

    • Vinyl cutting and sublimation printing

  • Electronics & Robotics

    • Soldering and circuit design

    • Microcontrollers and sensors

    • Robotics and motion systems

    • Interactive electronics

  • Geometric drawing of an outline square with sections divided by vertical, horizontal, and circle lines.

    Design & Software

    • AD and digital modeling

    • Design thinking and prototyping

    • Product design workflows

  • Geometric drawing of an outline square with sections divided by vertical, horizontal, and diagonal lines.

    Media Production

    • Photography and video production

    • Studio lighting techniques

    • Project documentation and storytelling

Students will complete a series of hands-on projects such as:

  • Laser-engraved maker badge

  • Mechanical laser-cut puzzle or kinetic object

  • CNC carved wooden object

  • Interactive LED device

  • Mini robotics or motion system

  • Embroidered or wearable component

  • Vacuum-formed product enclosure

In addition, students will complete two larger interdisciplinary projects, designing and fabricating interactive works that combine technology, materials, and creative design.

Documentation & Portfolio Development

Students will maintain a daily multimedia blog journal, including:

  • Written reflections

  • Photos of fabrication processes

  • Short video documentation

  • Design sketches and iterations

This serves as a portfolio documenting their growth, technical skills, and creative development.

  • "Their attention to detail and commitment to quality truly stood out. We’ve already recommended them to others."

    —Former Customer

  • "Communication was top-notch and the final outcome was even better than we imagined. A great experience all around."

    —Former Customer

  • "Every detail was thoughtfully executed. We're thrilled with the outcome."

    —Former Customer

LET’S GET STARTED

Our team is ready to provide the attention, care, and expertise you deserve.