A Makerspace collaborative environment where individuals with shared interests, particularly in technology and computing, can work together on various projects. In this particular space, participants can exchange ideas, share tools, and leverage into each other’s expertise to enhance their creative endeavors.
Western Maryland Works provides a dedicated and resource-rich Makerspace environment designed to promote creativity and innovation among local makers, businesses, and entrepreneurs in their creative efforts. This collaborative setting is equipped with various advanced tools and machinery, including 3D printers, laser engravers, T-shirt presses, CNC machines, and more!
Technicians will be readily available to provide general guidance and troubleshoot equipment issues; however, they cannot perform tasks on the members' behalf. To facilitate an efficient workflow, we request that ALL members have their files completely prepared prior to utilizing the equipment. Additionally, technicians are available to assist with the setup and troubleshooting of your files.
To join the fun of the Makerspace Community, please reserve a spot for a free Makerspace Orientation. During the Orientation you will receive a tour of the facility and an introduction to the machines available for use. You will also be able to sign up for a free BASIC MEMBERSHIP
After becoming a Basic Member, you will be ready for the next step - TRAINING! Please note: Basic computer literacy is required, and all members must complete the appropriate training session before using any machine or equipment. The training does not cover how to create original designs from scratch.
Booking a training is simple - just log in to our Bookings page by clicking SCHEDULE NOW and select the machine you would like to learn. Each one-hour training session ($20 per machine) will guide you through preparing and sending pre-made designs to our digilab machines for production. To help you get started, we also offer a catalog of ready-to-use design templates.
The Woodshop runs a bit (pun intended) differently. Before gaining access, Basic Members must complete the "Intro to Woodshop" training session ($20). You can sign up for Intro to Woodshop on the Bookings page by clicking SCHEDULE NOW. This session is scheduled in a two-hour time slot, though the actual duration may vary depending on each member's ability to safely and confidently operate the tools.
Once you've completed your training session, you are clear for takeoff! That's when you can upgrade to an ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP - unlocking the ability to reserve equipment, book even more training sessions, and make the most of everything our Makerspace has to offer.
Choose the Active membership that fits your creative lifestyle:
We do charge separately for consumables like filament, wood, gas, ink, and so forth, but feel free to bring your own materials as long as they meet our guidelines.
Various Workshops will be offered. The Monthly Calendar will show what is being offered, but we also provide a catalog of projects in the Woodshop that the Active Member can choose and can always consult with our technicians for guidance on selecting a workshop that aligns with their interests and expertise.
To make the most of our equipment and ensure a safe, organized environment, you must schedule a reservation before using any of our equipment in the Digilab. All appointments are limited to a maximum of two hours. If your project requires additional time, please schedule additional appointments. So, don’t forget – click the SCHEDULE NOW button to book a training or reserve your desired equipment and start making!
Please note that we do not create projects on behalf of the members. Our mission is to empower members with the skills and knowledge to bring their own creative ideas to life. We are a makerspace dedicated to education and hands-on learning. Our technicians are here to support members and answer any questions so please feel free to seek guidance as needed, but our technicians cannot be responsible for completing members' project or provide extended technical assistance.
**If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Sue or Will—they’ll be happy to help and can walk you through all the details about the Makerspace.
3D Printing - 3D printing or additive manufacturing, involves making three-dimensional solid objects from a digital file. We offer consumer and production-grade fused disposition modeling (FDM) and UV-hardened liquid resin (Polyjet). You can create your own designs or download open-source files to start printing.
Digital Fabrication - Digital fabrication is a type of manufacturing process in which a computer and complex software control the machine. We provide industry-grade machines that can cut, shape, or engrave wood, metal, plastics, glass, and a variety of composite materials.
Woodworking - Woodworking is a productive craft that involves cutting, shaping, and joining wood to create decorative and functional items. Our shop here at Western Maryland Works is equipped with top-notch dust collection systems and features a range of hand tools and professional-grade equipment, catering to both novice and experienced woodworkers.
For more information on memberships and registering for classes, please contact
shartman1510@allegany.edu or call at 301.784.5236
Sue Hartman
shartman1510@allegany.edu
Office Manager
301.784.5236
Western MD Works
A.A., Allegany College of Maryland
Will Baxter
wbaxter12073@allegany.edu
Lead Technician
301.784.5236
Western MD Works
B.S., Frostburg State University
