Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces can serve as powerful engines for economic and community development. In this episode, guests Dr. Stephanie Santoso, Co-Founder and President of MakerUSA, and Secretary Jake Day, Secretary of Housing and Community Development for the State of Maryland, share why makerspaces matter—not just as creative hubs, but as essential infrastructure for inclusive innovation, workforce development, and entrepreneurship. Drawing on national and state-level experience, they discuss what it takes to secure public investment, how makerspaces can better communicate impact to policymakers, and what leaders should look for when supporting these spaces.
To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:
Mechanism (mechanism.community)
MakerUSA (https://www.makerusa.org/)
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (https://dhcd.maryland.gov/pages/default.aspx)

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces are transforming into small-scale manufacturers. Guests Meg Hammond of Generator in Burlington, VT and Will Holman of OpenWorks in Baltimore, MD, share how their spaces support local entrepreneurs, artists, and community projects through contract fabrication—from 3D printing custom parts to building interactive art installations and public infrastructure. Discover how these makerspaces are bridging gaps in education, technology, and local manufacturing, providing hands-on learning and empowering creators to bring ideas to life.
To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:
Mechanism (mechanism.community)
Generator (https://generatorvt.com/)
OpenWorks (https://www.openworksbmore.org/)

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces are transforming communities by blending creativity, skill-building, and workforce development. Featuring Tiffany Jacobs of Forge Greensboro in Greensboro, NC and Brianna Drohen of LaunchSpace in Orange, MA, they discuss how hands-on learning empowers youth and adults to gain confidence, and pursue careers in trades and technology.

To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:
Mechanism (mechanism.community)
Forge Greensboro (https://www.forgegreensboro.org/)
LaunchSpace (https://launchspace-orange.com/)

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces empower creators of all ages to turn ideas into businesses and community impact. Featuring Megan McNally of The Foundry in Buffalo, NY and Dan Falkenstrom of Tech Valley Center of Gravity in Troy, NY, they dive into the ways makerspaces provide tools, mentorship, and collaborative ecosystems that help hobbyists, entrepreneurs, and artists grow their skills, launch businesses, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. From hockey puck bottle openers to printing press kits and community memorials, discover the surprising products—and stories—that emerge when creativity meets support.To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:
Mechanism (mechanism.community)
The Foundry (https://www.thefoundrybuffalo.org/)
Tech Valley Center of Gravity (https://www.tvcog.net/)

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they continue to dive into the vibrant world of makerspaces. In this episode, they speak with Kalia Morrison of Decatur Makers in Decatur, GA and Dave Velzy of Hive 13 in Cincinnati, OH about how these community-driven spaces empower people of all ages to create, learn, and connect. From 3D printing and woodworking to laser cutting and unexpected innovations, hear stories of confidence, creativity, and the powerful social impact of making together. Whether you’re curious about learning new skills, joining a supportive community, or simply inspired by human ingenuity, this episode shows why makerspaces matter.
To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:
Mechanism (mechanism.community)
Decatur Makers (https://www.decaturmakers.org/)
Hive13 (https://hive13.org/)

Join Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they dive into the world of makerspaces across the U.S. In this season opener, Dr. Ron Williams of Coppin State University sits down to explore how these dynamic community hubs foster creativity, collaboration, and innovation. From hobbyists to entrepreneurs, discover how makerspaces are shaping skills, culture, and opportunity—while driving education, economic impact, and community connection in unexpected ways.
To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:
Mechanism (mechanism.community)
Ronald Williams (https://www.ronaldcwilliamsphd.com/)
Open Works Baltimore (https://www.openworksbmore.org/)

In this final episode of the season, Vincent Sagisi and Andrew Dahlgren explore how leaders in sustainable textiles define success. From ethical production and zero-waste practices to building community and creating meaningful jobs, guests reveal the values that guide their work: collaboration, creativity, responsibility, and hope. Defining success means more than growth—it’s about making a difference, staying true to your principles, and shaping systems for a better future.

To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:

Mechanism (mechanism.community)
Prairie Underground (https://www.prairieunderground.com/)
California Product Stewardship Council (https://www.calpsc.org/)
Everywhere Apparel (https://everywhereapparel.com/)
Old Flame Mending (https://www.oldflamemending.com/)
Sew Valley (https://sewvalley.org/)
Fabscrap (https://fabscrap.org/)
Magpies and Peacocks (https://magpiesandpeacocks.org/)
Wandering Ewe Fibers (https://thewanderingewefibers.com/)
Pacific Northwest Fiber Connect (https://www.pnwfiberconnect.org/)
Homeboy Threads (https://homeboythreads.com/)

In this episode, Vincent Sagisi and Andrew Dahlgren explore circular systems in textiles, from recycling cotton and wool to garment repair and design for disassembly. They highlight the people, processes, and innovations keeping materials—and value—out of landfills.
To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:
Mechanism (mechanism.community)
Everywhere Apparel (https://everywhereapparel.com/)
Wandering Ewe Fibers (https://thewanderingewefibers.com/)
Pacific Northwest Fiber Connect (https://www.pnwfiberconnect.org/)
Old Flame Mending (https://www.oldflamemending.com/)
Fabscrap (https://fabscrap.org/)
Homeboy Threads (https://homeboythreads.com/)