Students in the IU1 Fab Lab program had been busy turning creativity into craftsmanship, producing a variety of wooden projects that showcased both their technical skills and entrepreneurial spirit. Among their most notable creations were the handcrafted wooden trees presented to IU1 Board members, a project that required weeks of planning and hands-on work. From initial design and precision cutting to sanding, staining, and finishing, students of all ages were involved in every step of the process, gaining real-world experience with tools, materials, and teamwork.
Beyond gifts for board members, Fab Lab students also created additional wooden items for their student-run store, allowing them to explore the business side of manufacturing. Through this process, students learned about product design, quality control, pricing, and customer appeal—skills that extended well beyond the workshop and into future career pathways.
The Fab Lab’s work was also highlighted during a recent Local Education Agency (LEA) meeting, where attendees had the opportunity to see student creations firsthand and learned more about how the program supported hands-on, career-connected learning. These projects sparked meaningful conversations about innovation, workforce readiness, and the value of providing students with authentic learning experiences.
In addition, Fab Lab students proudly showcased and sold their creations at the Holiday Market hosted by Range Resources. This community event gave students the chance to interact with customers, explain their design process, and see their hard work valued by the public. Experiences like these reinforced confidence, communication skills, and a sense of accomplishment.
Through projects like these, the IU1 Fab Lab continued to empower students to create with purpose, connect with their community, and develop skills that served them well beyond the classroom.
