Stadtwerke Gießen is continuing its cooperation with Makerspace Gießen and is supporting the extraordinary educational institution for a further three years.
The future is digital. Which means that increasingly sophisticated technology will play an ever greater role. Even today, there is a danger that many people, even young people, will lose touch. Because they simply don't have access to devices such as 3D printers, CNC milling machines, laser cutters, plotters for textile printing or VR glasses. This is exactly where the Makerspace Giessen comes in. Here, interested people of all ages can try out this modern technology. There is also the opportunity to use the various devices free of charge to realise your own ideas. All of this makes the Makerspace Giessen a highly innovative educational facility where equal opportunities are firmly anchored in the concept. "The makerspace is a real flagship project. We want to continue to support this pioneering institution in its important work," explained Ulli Boos, company spokesperson for Stadtwerke Gießen (SWG), on the occasion of the signing of the cooperation agreement, which is valid for a further three years. On this occasion, Ulli Boos and his employee responsible for sponsorship, Stephanie Orlik, handed over a donation that the Makerspace can make good use of for its work: 15 monitors.
Much more than imparting knowledge
Nils Seipel and Johannes Schmid are behind Makerspace Gießen. The two conceived the project, which is funded by the city and district of Giessen, and launched it together with Technologie- und Innovationszentrum Gießen GmbH, the Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen and Justus Liebig University Giessen. These partners are still on board. They contribute a wealth of expertise that benefits everyone who comes to the Makerspace. "Our aim is to impart knowledge that our visitors can use to develop themselves further. In a way, we help them to become more self-determined," says Nils Seipel, explaining the idea.
In addition to imparting knowledge, the makerspace pursues another ambitious goal: an interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary exchange involving many stakeholders - from universities and companies, but also people who are interested in digital technology and its applications. "We can and should organise discussions that motivate potential founders to try out new things - something they have not had access to before. Because that's exactly what opens up new perspectives," adds Johannes Schmid.
What happens in the makerspace
During the "open workshop", anyone can drop by and try things out. There are also numerous courses - including for school classes. The procedure is always similar: Essentially, the carers in the Makerspace show interested parties how the various tools and devices work and instruct them on how to use them safely. "We enable our visitors to work independently on their own projects," explains Nils Seipel. For example, it is possible to print a spare part for a toy that is no longer available or to design and produce a personalised gift - such as a T-shirt with a customised design. The experts from the makerspace can also help with professional matters, such as building a prototype. "If someone already has very specific ideas but doesn't know who can make such a prototype, we are happy to put them in touch with a contact from our network," says Johannes Schmid, describing the service.
Common foundation
In order to keep the barrier to entry as low as possible, one important principle applies in the Makerspace: all services are free of charge. This means that the centre relies on sponsors. "Without generous partners, the Makerspace would be unthinkable. That's why we are extremely grateful that SWG continues to support us," summarises Nils Seipel. And Ulli Boos adds: "Our cooperation is based on shared values and ideas - above all sustainability and regional commitment."