We first met Reid when he took a online Robotics class with Make-It in 2021—he was just a middle-school student at that time. In 2024, and now a high school student, Reid got back in touch because he wanted to “give back.” In August, 2024, he volunteered to lead a 3-session Robotics class and enjoyed the opportunity to share the skill with a class full of young people and some of their parents.
Describe your first visit to Make-It Springfield. What did it feel like? What did you think?
I first interacted with Make-It Springfield during covid when I took an online class called robotics and electronics. I was thrilled to have found a community of makers that were eager to share their skills with one another. I was inspired by the way that my instructor shared his time, giving students the materials and knowledge they needed to be able to make meaningful things.
What role do you think Make-It Springfield can play in our city and the Pioneer Valley?
Make-It Springfield is important to the Pioneer Valley because it works to provide the incredible opportunity of bringing imagination into reality for anyone who wishes to do so.
Why did you decide to get involved with Make-It Springfield?
At first I decided to get involved with Make-It Springfield because I was interested in learning more about the field of robotics by taking a class that it was offering. I returned to Make-It Springfield because I understood the value of that class and hoped that I could provide the same opportunity to more makers.
What are your hopes and dreams for your creative career?
Currently I am thinking about ways that I can apply my skills to improve the communities I am a part of. I define success as having a positive impact on the lives of the people that I care about. I hope to develop my skills to a point that I can use engineering to help people as a full time career.
How has your work changed over time?
My love for projects began when I would follow my Dad around our garage, trying to help whenever I could. Eventually I started using more tools and mediums, such as 3d printers, and electronics, allowing me to progress my work from completing household projects, to building designs of my own.
How does being a maker or artist fit into the rest of your life?
Rowing, Biking and Skiing are some of my favorite activities. In each, I am eager to understand the engineering behind the systems and components of the machines that I use for play. I have enjoyed learning how to fix and maintain these machines when I am not using them to have fun.
What is the best way for people to connect with you and view your work?
If you are interested in getting in touch with me, email someone at Make-It Springfield and they will connect you to me!
