Meet the Makers

Laura grew up in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Since both of her parents are teachers, education is a top priority. Growing up she loved shop class and learned how to create circuits, program robots, and work with wood and metal. She loved the sciences, which she pursued in college. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a minor in Anthropology from the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina. After graduation, Laura got her first job as a marine mammal trainer in Panama City Beach, Florida, where she played with dolphins and sea lions for about three years.

She later became a stay-at-home mom and started to work on her teaching degree in 2001. She completed some preliminary coursework, but didn’t finish her certification, which she used to homeschool her two daughters.

Laura has been married for over 18 years to her best friend, Wade, and together they are remodeling a 1908 home in Lamar, doing all the work themselves and using as many recycled materials as possible.

Pam McPherson works as an LPN in Eads, Colorado.  When she isn’t working or volunteering at the I&MS, Pam spends her time doing crafts or sewing.

Pam got involved with the I&MS to learn and help others – “I have been doing crafts and sewing most of my life, and I love to learn and broaden my knowledge base.  I wanted to learn how to use the new equipment that LCC has and help other to learn and create as well.”

Jessica Medina is a mother of four and works at LCC as the Academic Services Coordinator.  Jessica enjoys sewing and crafting, and has used the opportunity to volunteer at the I&MS to try new  and bigger projects.

“I have sewn and quilted most of my life and wanted the opportunity to try new machines with greater capacity. I also have done vinyl work with several different Cricuts and have really enjoyed the capability of the computer and Cricut programs. The industrial sewing machine, serger, and vinyl machine was what got me interested in the Innovate & Make Space. However, I have enjoyed learning how to use the other machines and building projects,” Jessica said of her time as an I&MS volunteer.

Tony Medina got into his current career in Information Technology through exploring a wide range of hobbies.  Currently, he works in IT at the High Plains clinic.  Tony was introduced to the I&MS by his wife, Jessica Medina, who thought he would enjoy learning how to use the laser cutter and engraver on his long-time woodworking hobby.

“My wife introduced me to the makerspace so that I could learn how to use the laser engraver and I have enjoyed using all the neat functions on several different mediums,” Tony said of his I&MS experience. “When I create something, I am always thinking on how I can do it better so my work keeps expanding and getting more detailed as I go.”

In Lori Peterson’s role as a volunteer at the I&MS, she teaches certification classes on the vinyl cutter and heat press and helps guide makerspace users on their creative journey.

Lori draws inspiration from her life experiences and the world around her – “I am a wife, mom, grammie, daughter, sister, and friend.  I am a small-town farmgirl who loves to visit the city. I am a life-long artist, creator & learner. I get my creative energy from sunrises & sunsets, which I try to photo every day.  I began taking art & sewing classes when I was 8 years old.  I quickly learned that I wanted to make every creation my own unique design, which led me to many failures and successes along the way!”

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• Train others effectively in correct use of the Innovate & Make Space machines.  This includes learning the software specific to each piece of equipment.
• Continue your own learning and exploration in the process of volunteering.
• Work closely with the Lab Manager on establishing protocols and safety standards for the equipment in this space.
• Work independently of the Lab Manager and be responsible for community members and students that come into the space to work.
• Bring any serious concerns to the attention of the Lab Manager.
• Keep the work space neat, organized, and notify the Lab Manager if supplies need to be restocked.
• Easily identify students or community members who are struggling to connect the technology to the final product, and patiently give them the help they need.
• Use your own expertise in manufacturing to create workshops and encourage others to share as well.

• Skills in the STEAM areas (science, technology, engineering, art and design, and math) is preferred, but not necessary. The ability to create and grow these skills in yourself is an essential part of Innovate and Make experience!
• Strong interest in working with students and community members to help them achieve their creation goals.
• Enthusiastic about learning and a willingness to continually acquire new information.
• Must be able to work together well with others.
• Must enjoy meeting new people and sharing ideas.

• Access to the Innovate and Make Space equipment except when LCC classes are in attendance.  Please understand that materials are not included at this time.  There will be a small charge for PLA filament (3-D printers) and vinyl (for making signs and t-shirts) that will be determined at a later point. You must bring along all wood, acrylic, leather, etc. for your own creations!
• Additional training on equipment if needed and as available.
• The gratification of knowing that you have helped and supported LCC students and community members to fulfill their entrepreneurial endeavors.
• This is a great way to not only give back to your community, but also to join in on the groundbreaking idea of the Innovate & Make Space experience!
• Full support of the LCC staff. We value and appreciate volunteers!