Program Overview
Are you looking for a little extra structure to help you dive into MakeHaven?
Join the GEMS program, where you'll earn digital badges—micro-credentials that showcase your safety and tool skills—while creating projects with your new abilities. Alongside 8-9 other participants and your GEMS Coach you'll dedicate two evenings a week to hands-on making in our makerspace. You'll cover wood, textiles, digital, and metal—all the basics to get you started!
Over 10 weeks, you'll gain hands-on experience through guided projects while earning badges that certify your tool proficiency. Build confidence and independence in the makerspace, and by the end, you'll have completed four projects and become part of a supportive community of makers.
Why Join GEMS?
Earn Digital Badges
Show off your skills with micro-credentials recognized at MakeHaven.
Hands-On Learning
Dive into practical projects and gain experience with cutting-edge tools.
Guided by Experts
Work with your GEMS Coach, and skilled volunteers who will guide you every step of the way.
Create Portfolio-Worthy Projects
Complete and showcase a project in each focus area—perfect for building your maker portfolio.
Upcoming Cohorts
Pick a start date below to register. Every cohort runs 10 weeks—two 2-hour evening meetings each week, plus shop hours—and costs $285 (sliding-scale pricing available).
10-Week Schedule
| Week(s) | Focus Area | Details | Badges Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Introduction 🗓️ | Meet your cohort, learn the program's goals and expectations for participants. | None |
| Weeks 2-3 | Digital Fabrication 💻 | Learn Digital Fabrication Overview and Inkscape Introduction. | Laser CutterVinyl Cutter |
| Weeks 4-5 | Woodworking 🪚 | Hands-on woodworking basics: use the miter saw, planer, and jointer to create a desktop phone holder. | WoodshopTable Saw |
| Weeks 6-7 | Metalworking 🛠️ | Learn Metalworking by using the grinder and MIG welder to create a simple steel object. | Metal ShopMIG Welding |
| Weeks 8-9 | Textiles 🧵 | Develop sewing skills: use the sewing machine to sew and decorate a fabric project. | Sewing Machine |
| Week 10 | Graduation 🎓 | Celebrate your journey: present your completed projects, connect with your cohort. | Graduation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the GEMS program?
GEMS is designed for new members looking to dive into the maker community, but established members are also welcome to join and explore.
Do I need prior experience with tools?
No prior experience is needed! GEMS is an introductory program perfect for beginners who want to get hands-on.
Can I join if I'm not a MakeHaven member?
A MakeHaven membership is required to participate in GEMS, as the program is centered around using the space and earning badges.
Are materials provided?
Your coach will provide recommendations for low-cost materials, and MakeHaven often has scraps available for small projects.