Randolph
Then head to 24 Pleasant St. in Randolph from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday for the annual Randolph Maker Fest.
“I think our main goal is make technology seem more friendly and accessible,” said Nathan Johnston, information technology manager for the Randolph Area Community Development Corp., which hosts the free event. In years past, up to 400 people have attended.
It’s also a place for technologically inclined Vermonters to connect with one another. It’s not limited to advances such as 3D printing, the art of weaving is also included in the mix. New this year will be a “VerMod” net-zero home that attendees can tour to learn more about.
“(It) is really fun to watch people’s faces to watch when they are exposed to things that are new to them, fascinating to them and they want to learn more,” said Julie Iffland, executive director of the development corporation. “That’s the reward here.”
In recent years, purchasing items such as 3D printers and drones have become more accessible for consumers in terms of price range, but there’s still a learning curve that exists.
“We are in a weird spot right now,” Johnston said. “Because of the knowledge barrier it’s inaccessible to people.”
The maker fest gives people an opportunity to get to know those devices without having to think about purchasing them. It’s more akin to learning in a classroom than from a salesman.
“The cool part about technology if people know how to use it, is you can take these tools and literally do something in your basement that you had to have a manufacturing facility to do,” Johnston said. “All you have to do is learn how to program them. We want people to not just be consumers of technology, but to be masters of technology.”
The activities at the maker fest are for people of all ages. Children, in particular, have shown an interest and there are plenty of hands-on activities for them to participate in at the event. Early introduction to technology could inspire them to later pursue a career in the STEAM field.
“Experiencing it now, you’ll be less afraid of it,” Johnston said.
A panel of area business advisers will also be available to answer questions from prospective business owners.
“There will be some help there to chat with someone who has been in business or has a special skill or expertise from banking to marketing to business development,” Iffland said. The event also is handicap-accessible.
“There’s no limit to the people who can engage in it,” Iffland said. “Really all ages have been mesmerized by some of this stuff.”
Editor’s note: For more information, visit https://racdc.com/ or call 802-728-4305. Liz Sauchelli can be reached at esauchelli@vnews.com or 603-727-3221.
