CAD Principles & Spatial Reasoning: Learning how engineers and designers build physical objects from scratch using 2D sketches, 3D extrusions, and shape combinations.

Design for 3D Printing: Understanding how digital CAD geometry translates into physical 3D prints, including wall thickness, overhang angles, support structures, and tolerances.

3D File Exporting & Slicing Basics: Hands-on practice exporting industry-standard STL/OBJ files and preparing models for slicing software and 3D printer production.

Beginner Tier- Tinkercad: Ages 9+ (or younger when accompanied by an adult). Perfect for first-time makers and young students.

Intermediate Tier- Fusion 360: Ages 11+, teens, and adults looking for parametric modeling capabilities.

Advanced Tier- Onshape: Ages 11+, teens, and adults seeking browser-native, professional engineering tools.

Ideal Event Types: Digital literacy series, youth STEAM programs, maker space intros, adult continuing education, and seasonal project workshops.

Max Attendance: up to 30 participants, but 10 is ideal for personalized attention. 

First 15 Mins – Intro to CAD & 3D Printing Overview

An overview of what CAD is, how 3D printers turn digital models into physical objects, and real-world applications across modern industries.

Next 50–60 Mins – Hands-On Guided Project Build

Step-by-step instruction modeling a targeted, age-appropriate project tailored to the group's skill level. Example workshop projects include:

• Youth & Beginners: Custom keychains, glow-in-the-dark stars and planets, or stylized Funko Pop-style figures.

• Teens & Adults: Functional shark combs, IQ tester puzzle games, desktop organizers, or custom widgets.

Final 15 Mins – Exporting, 3D Print Prep & Wrap-Up

Demonstrating how to export files for 3D printing, reviewing sample 3D-printed parts, and explaining how attendees can continue designing from home.

Hardware Needed: Venue must provide computers or laptops equipped with web browsers and external computer mice (Chromebooks with mice work great).

Connectivity: Reliable internet access for browser-based CAD access.

What's Provided: Complete software instruction, guided exercise files, and physical 3D-printed sample parts*.

*3D Printing Add-On: For youth workshops, custom student prints (keychains, fidget spinners, seasonal widgets) can be cleaned up and shared digitally for local printing, or pre-printed/delivered post-workshop for a fee.