How do you transform a collection of tools into a thriving hub of innovation? This 30-minute workshop explores the evolution of makerspace electronics through the lens of my journey as the Innovative Media Librarian at UC Riverside and my prior tenure at the University of La Verne.Attendees will go behind the scenes of establishing successful electronics and robotics initiatives, including the development of UCR’s Robotics Lab—an extension of the Creat’R Lab. I will share the strategies used to scale programming from K-12 summer camps to high-demand workshops for diverse undergraduate and graduate populations.The session focuses on practical takeaways, addressing common challenges such as:Curriculum Design: Creating beginner-friendly entry points (like animatronics) for non-technical majors.Resource Management: Selecting the right tools for 3D modeling and fabrication to support diverse projects.Community Engagement: Building outreach programs that result in sold-out sessions and waitlists.Whether you are starting from scratch or looking to revitalize an existing space, this workshop provides a roadmap for building robust, sustainable electronics programming. Participants will leave with actionable insights on technical implementation and community-building to ensure that once their makerspace is built, the students will indeed come.
