Machine Shop Update: Empowering Prototyping and Technical Learning
Above: Warehouse Shop Steward Harry Huffaker (L) points to the aluminum tube ladder modified on the Machine Shop’s CNC with Evan Sugarbaker (R), engineer on the Better Process project.
Below: Close-up of slots milled into the aluminum tube ladder on the Warehouse Machine Shop’s CNC.
The Warehouse Machine Shop is fully up and running, with over a dozen machines now in service, marking an important milestone at the Innovation Hub.
Early Wins, Early Proof
The Machine Shop has already supported its first projects, including modifying an existing component and transforming a 3D-printed prototype into a stainless-steel prototype part. In addition to prototyping, the Machine Shop may also be used for custom one-off components fabricated for individual projects.
Why This Matters
By lowering the barriers to advanced tools and technical training, the Machine Shop helps:
Accelerate technology development and prototype-to-market timelines
Build a skilled technical workforce aligned with advanced manufacturing needs
Retain engineering and product development talent locally
Behind the Scenes
Bringing the shop to life requires more than equipment; it requires expert guidance and mentorship. Shop Steward Harry Huffaker is leading training and certification for community members, including shop safety, metrology, and hands-on instruction on the Tormach CNC machines. These certifications help participants develop the technical literacy needed to design, build, and iterate. To expand access and scale impact, training content will also be delivered through our new Learning Management System (LMS), enabling on-demand technical education for a broader community.
To reinforce a culture of safety and accountability, RFID lockouts have been implemented on all equipment that requires certification prior to use. Machines will only be accessible to certified users, ensuring proper training, reducing risk, and maintaining a professional, industry-aligned shop environment.
Powered by Community Support
The Machine Shop exists because of the vision and generosity of Warehouse supporters. Your investment is helping create a shared resource that will serve innovators for years to come, expanding access to technical education and enabling the next generation of high-growth companies.
As training expands and more projects come through the shop, we’ll continue to share stories of impact, learning, and innovation.