STLinSTL 2025: Full Schedule

1:40pm CDT

Power Carving & Epoxy: Hands-On Making for the Classroom

Thursday June 5, 2025 1:40pm - 4:00pm CDT

Join us for an immersive, hands-on experience in power carving and epoxy work, designed specifically for educators and makerspace leaders. This session will begin with an exploration of the foundational principles of maker education and the decade of progress that has shaped today’s learning environments. Then, we’ll dive into practical techniques, providing participants with hands-on experience using power carving tools and epoxy to create stunning projects.
But this session isn’t just about making - it’s about teaching making. You’ll gain insights into how to integrate these tools and techniques into your own makerspace, adapting them for different age groups, skill levels, and classroom settings. Whether you’re looking to refine your own skills or empower your students with new creative possibilities, this session will equip you with both the mindset and the methods to bring hands-on innovation to your learning space.
No prior experience with power carving or epoxy is necessary - just a willingness to create, experiment, and learn!

Featured Speakers

Leigh Northrup

Dean of Innovation & Technology, Cannon School

Leigh Northrup’s lifelong passion for making traces back to his grandfather’s workshop, where he first discovered the joy of creating with his hands. Now, as the Dean of Innovation and Technology at Cannon School for over 24 years, he has built a thriving, nationally renowned... Read More →

Mush Hughes

Makerspace Facilitator, Cannon School

Mush Hughes joined Cannon School as an Upper School Makerspace Facilitator in 2017. Prior to that time, he was an independent consultant for an international nonprofit, where he taught teachers how to use math and reading software, and developed STEM incentive curriculum for schools... Read More →

Thursday June 5, 2025 1:40pm - 4:00pm CDT
Maker Lab

Workshop

Category Schools of the Future

1:40pm CDT

Leveling Up Classroom Creativity with Lasers & Microcontrollers

Friday June 6, 2025 1:40pm - 4:00pm CDT

Maker Lab

Want to take your classroom projects to the next level - without adding high-level complexity? This hands-on session is designed for educators and makerspace leaders looking for accessible, high-impact tools that expand creative possibilities for students.
We’ll start by getting hands-on with laser cutting and engraving basics, exploring how quick and simple modifications can dramatically enhance student projects. Then, we’ll dive into microcontrollers, using the BBC Micro:Bit to bring interactivity, motion, and light to life in the classroom - no prior coding experience needed!
Along the way, we’ll break down practical strategies for teaching these tools effectively, adapting them for different age groups, skill levels, and learning environments. Whether you run a dedicated makerspace or are just looking for ways to integrate more hands-on learning, you’ll leave with concrete ideas, tested techniques, and project inspiration that’s ready to implement.
Expect experimentation, collaboration, and a low-barrier approach to high-impact making - all in a fast-paced, creative environment. Come ready to build, test, and explore. No prior experience required - just curiosity and a willingness to create!