Learning Community Innovation Zone to host first Maker Fair

The Learning Community Innovation Zone (LCIZ) Makerspace is hosting the University of Connecticut’s first Maker Fair and created UConn’s first official makerspace.  

“We recognize that our students, faculty and staff have tremendous talents that deserve to be shared, and what better way to do so than with a Maker Fair,” Cody Ryan, Learning Community Innovation Zone Supervisor said.  

The LCIZ is hosting the university’s first Maker Fair on Saturday, April 6 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Werth Tower.  

The event promotes collaboration among the attendees as well as a platform to display creations, Ryan said.  

“The event welcomes makers from all across the university to come together to showcase their inventions, artwork, crafts, creations and more,” Ryan said.  

The deadline for makers to have a designated area or table to showcase their work is Tuesday, March 26.  

If makers feel that their creations are not ready to be showcased, Ryan said he suggests students still attend.  

“We strongly encourage you to attend and be inspired by UConn’s creativity,” Ryan said.  

The second annual Modified Pinewood Derby will take place at the Maker Fair, Ryan said.  

This event is similar to a traditional Pinewood Derby, where participants build a car typically from a wood, except the modified competition forces makers to incorporate a 3D-printed and circulated component into the derby car, Ryan said.  

“Prizes will be awarded for the fastest car in each circuit, as well as Most Innovative Derby Car and the People’s Choice Derby Car,” Ryan said.  

The LCIZ is looking forward to celebrating UConn’s Makers, Ryan said, as well as seeing who builds the best modified car. 

“The LCIZ strives to help our community develop innovative thinking, creativity, problem-solving skill sets and entrepreneurial mindset while having fun doing it,” Ryan said.  

Ashley Anglisano is a staff writer for The Daily Campus. She can be reached by email at ashley.anglisano@uconn.edu.