M4 reactor maker space reopens, showcasing innovate technology for community members
SALISBURY, Md. – Delmarva’s one and only maker space, open for the public. A place where creative minds can collaborate, all while using innovate technologies and tools. “Someone with an idea can come here and make that idea come true,” says Jack Dalton, President of the Mason Dixon Wood Workers. Jim Leethen. Board President of the Make Delmarva Foundation adds, “It’s been great just to have that group come in, use the space, see what we’ve built become available and be used by the public .”
M4 Reactor held a grand reopening on Saturday. We’re told, once COVID halted their plans of opening a fully operational space, space operators say, it took them a bit to get back on their feet. However, the city of Salisbury received a grant, where operates could help make acrylic shields for businesses, so they could still make money to get buy until they could reopen. “Operating one here on the shore has been a challenge in terms of the fact that we are a non-profit organization, we’re all volunteers and to keep the space going we do rely on community support,” says founder, Kevin Justice.
Now that they’re able to show the community, endless possibilities, we’re told there are four different shops two of which are still in the works. There is currently a wood shop and a laser shop, and operators say, if you can think it, you can make it. “Just the community of makers that came in and their ideas have inspired me to make some new things and they inspire each other every day to make new things,” says Leethen. Dalton adds, “Whatever your dream is, you come here and there’s someone who can teach you how to do it, and there’s a machinery that can help you to realize that dream.”
Dalton tells 47 ABC, he collaborates with the shop and uses it to help his organization which makes toys for children. “It’s nice being an older wood worker to be able to bring young people in and see them get that love of wood working to build something in their lives,” says Dalton.
Now that they’re welcoming in community members, we’re told just like a gym, you can get a membership. You receive training on how to work the machines, and then you’re ready to make almost anything from 3D toys, to signs, helmets and so much more. “It’s also very rewarding to be able to do something for the community that no one else can do in a space like this,” says Justice.
Dalton also adds, the maker space teaches you life lessons, and connections that make it all worth while. “I still have the bowl that I made for my mother in shop class when I was a senior in high school and I still have that bowl. So it’s nice to be able to pass that on to another generation,” says Dalton.
We’re also told you can only be 14 years of age and up to get a membership.
If you would like more information on the maker space and what classes and tools they have to offer, just head to their website.
Gloss