The UW-Stout Fab Lab will host the thrilling Make48 competition this weekend, October 4-6. The clock will be ticking! This fast-paced event will challenge eight teams from Wisconsin high schools to design, build, and pitch a brand-new prototype – all under the watchful eye of the Make48 documentary series cameras!
The Challenge
Teams will have a mere 48 hours to brainstorm, design, fabricate, and perfect their creations. The suspense is high as Derrick Building Solutions will reveal the challenge at the event's kickoff on Friday. The stakes couldn't be higher; the winning team will secure a coveted spot at the National Make48 competition in Kansas City, where they will face off against the best teams from Season 8.
The Teams
Local talent takes center stage! Eight high school teams, each consisting of two SkillsUSA students paired with two UW-Stout college students, are ready to showcase their skills and collaborative spirit.
Representing their communities are:
Menomonie H.S.
Chippewa Falls High School
Case High School (Racine)
Beloit Memorial HS
Amery H.S.
Eau Claire North H.S.
Rice Lake H.S.
*Read about teams HERE
The Support Network
An impressive network of Wisconsin businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations is rallying to support these young innovators. This includes UW-Stout, Derrick Building Solutions, Andersen Windows, Xcel Energies, Momentum West, 3M, Valmet, Greater Beloit EDC, Stateline Manufacturing Assoc., United Way of Racine, Menomonie Tourism Bureau, BioForward Wisconsin, and many others.
The teams will also benefit from the guidance of a fantastic crew of tool technicians, mentors, and volunteers, including Tyler Isaacs (Wooden Whiskers Trading Co.), Ryan Patterson (ShopBot Tools), Steve Myers (Onshape), Michael Cropp (UW-Stout’s Fab Lab Specialist), and dedicated UW-Stout students.
Let's not forget the generous tool sponsors who provide essential resources year-round, including Fastenal, Lincoln Electric, ShopBot, Epilog Laser, The Restorer, Gridlock Table, The DeBruce Foundation, and more.
Stay Tuned!
The Fab Lab at UW-Stout will be a hub of activity and inspiration all weekend. The energy, the collaboration, and the sheer determination of these young minds will be on full display.
Keep an eye on the Make48 website and social media channels for updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the UW-Stout competition. And get ready to cheer on these talented students as they push the boundaries of what's possible!