3D Printing
After school Enrichment
Future-Ready Steam Skills, Taught Today
Fall Program Starts September 1, 2026
Technology will continue to change fast. Human creativity never goes out of style.
We teach that, hands-on, for grades 3 to 8.
Portland Public Schools Partner
Who?
3rd to 8th graders
WhEN?
Weekdays after school.
Programs start September 1st.
WHERE?
We’ll be at the following Portland Public Schools this Fall:
And more coming soon!
We also partner with SUN Community Schools!
Contact us or your SUN Community School for details and registration.
“My 4th grader loves this class! So happy we found it!”
~ Rebecca H.
What’s Included
8:1 Student to Instructor Ratio
All materials and 3D printing supplies
Daily snacks (nut-free)
Take-home 3D printed projects every week
Tuesdays after school from 2:30pm to 4:00pm (early release 11:50am to 1:20pm)
September 1st through October 20th, 8 sessions total
Open to 3rd Graders and above
Machines in Motion: A 3D Printing Design Program
Students dive into vehicles, gears, and moving parts, all built by hand in 3D. This is a 3D printing and design program, not robotics: no electronics, motors, or coding, just mechanisms that move because of how they're shaped and printed.
Each week introduces a new mechanical concept, from hinges that swing and gears that mesh to cranks that turn and cams that push. Students design vehicles that fly, float, or glide (jets, rockets, boats, hovercraft), then apply what they've learned to build working mechanisms and, eventually, a capstone project of their own design.
Perfect for students ready to go beyond basic shapes and explore how things actually move. Small class sizes and low instructor to student ratio (max 8:1) mean every student gets hands-on support as they design, print, and problem-solve their way to a finished machine.
Alameda Elementary
Tuesdays after school from 2:30pm to 4:00pm (early release 11:50am to 1:20pm)
September 1st through October 20th, 8 sessions total
Open to 3rd Graders and above
Machines in Motion: A 3D Printing Design Program
Students dive into vehicles, gears, and moving parts, all built by hand in 3D. This is a 3D printing and design program, not robotics: no electronics, motors, or coding, just mechanisms that move because of how they're shaped and printed.
-
Each week introduces a new mechanical concept, from hinges that swing and gears that mesh to cranks that turn and cams that push. Students design vehicles that fly, float, or glide (jets, rockets, boats, hovercraft), then apply what they've learned to build working mechanisms and, eventually, a capstone project of their own design.
Perfect for students ready to go beyond basic shapes and explore how things actually move. Small class sizes and low instructor to student ratio (max 8:1) mean every student gets hands-on support as they design, print, and problem-solve their way to a finished machine.
Wednesdays after school from 4:00pm to 5:30pm
September 2nd through October 21st, 8 sessions total
Open to 3rd Graders and above
Machines in Motion: A 3D Printing Design Program
Students dive into vehicles, gears, and moving parts, all built by hand in 3D. This is a 3D printing and design program, not robotics: no electronics, motors, or coding, just mechanisms that move because of how they're shaped and printed.
Each week introduces a new mechanical concept, from hinges that swing and gears that mesh to cranks that turn and cams that push. Students design vehicles that fly, float, or glide (jets, rockets, boats, hovercraft), then apply what they've learned to build working mechanisms and, eventually, a capstone project of their own design.
Perfect for students ready to go beyond basic shapes and explore how things actually move. Small class sizes and low instructor to student ratio (max 8:1) mean every student gets hands-on support as they design, print, and problem-solve their way to a finished machine.
Bridlemile Elementary
Wednesdays after school from 4:00pm to 5:30pm
September 2nd through October 21st, 8 sessions total
Open to 3rd Graders and above
Machines in Motion: A 3D Printing Design Program
Students dive into vehicles, gears, and moving parts, all built by hand in 3D. This is a 3D printing and design program, not robotics: no electronics, motors, or coding, just mechanisms that move because of how they're shaped and printed.
-
Each week introduces a new mechanical concept, from hinges that swing and gears that mesh to cranks that turn and cams that push. Students design vehicles that fly, float, or glide (jets, rockets, boats, hovercraft), then apply what they've learned to build working mechanisms and, eventually, a capstone project of their own design.
Perfect for students ready to go beyond basic shapes and explore how things actually move. Small class sizes and low instructor to student ratio (max 8:1) mean every student gets hands-on support as they design, print, and problem-solve their way to a finished machine.
Tuesdays after school from 2:30pm to 4:00pm (early release 11:50am to 1:20pm)
September 9th through November 5th, 8 sessions total
Open to 3rd Graders and above
Machines in Motion: A 3D Printing Design Program
Students dive into vehicles, gears, and moving parts, all built by hand in 3D. This is a 3D printing and design program, not robotics: no electronics, motors, or coding, just mechanisms that move because of how they're shaped and printed.
Each week introduces a new mechanical concept, from hinges that swing and gears that mesh to cranks that turn and cams that push. Students design vehicles that fly, float, or glide (jets, rockets, boats, hovercraft), then apply what they've learned to build working mechanisms and, eventually, a capstone project of their own design.
Perfect for students ready to go beyond basic shapes and explore how things actually move. Small class sizes and low instructor to student ratio (max 8:1) mean every student gets hands-on support as they design, print, and problem-solve their way to a finished machine.
Capitol Hill Elementary
Tuesdays after school from 2:30pm to 4:00pm (early release 11:50am to 1:20pm)
September 9th through November 5th, 8 sessions total
Open to 3rd Graders and above
Machines in Motion: A 3D Printing Design Program
Students dive into vehicles, gears, and moving parts, all built by hand in 3D. This is a 3D printing and design program, not robotics: no electronics, motors, or coding, just mechanisms that move because of how they're shaped and printed.
-
Each week introduces a new mechanical concept, from hinges that swing and gears that mesh to cranks that turn and cams that push. Students design vehicles that fly, float, or glide (jets, rockets, boats, hovercraft), then apply what they've learned to build working mechanisms and, eventually, a capstone project of their own design.
Perfect for students ready to go beyond basic shapes and explore how things actually move. Small class sizes and low instructor to student ratio (max 8:1) mean every student gets hands-on support as they design, print, and problem-solve their way to a finished machine.
Creston K-5
Mondays after school from 2:30pm to 4:00pm (early release 11:50am to 1:20pm)
September 14th through October 19th, 6 sessions total
Open to 3rd Graders and above
Machines in Motion: A 3D Printing Design Program
Students dive into vehicles, gears, and moving parts, all built by hand in 3D. This is a 3D printing and design program, not robotics: no electronics, motors, or coding, just mechanisms that move because of how they're shaped and printed.
Each week introduces a new mechanical concept, from hinges that swing and gears that mesh to cranks that turn and cams that push. Students design vehicles that fly, float, or glide (jets, rockets, boats, hovercraft), then apply what they've learned to build working mechanisms and, eventually, a capstone project of their own design.
Perfect for students ready to go beyond basic shapes and explore how things actually move. Small class sizes and low instructor to student ratio (max 8:1) mean every student gets hands-on support as they design, print, and problem-solve their way to a finished machine.
Mondays after school from 2:30pm to 4:00pm (early release 11:50am to 1:20pm)
September 14th through October 19th, 6 sessions total
Open to 3rd Graders and above
Machines in Motion: A 3D Printing Design Program
Students dive into vehicles, gears, and moving parts, all built by hand in 3D. This is a 3D printing and design program, not robotics: no electronics, motors, or coding, just mechanisms that move because of how they're shaped and printed.
-
Each week introduces a new mechanical concept, from hinges that swing and gears that mesh to cranks that turn and cams that push. Students design vehicles that fly, float, or glide (jets, rockets, boats, hovercraft), then apply what they've learned to build working mechanisms and, eventually, a capstone project of their own design.
Perfect for students ready to go beyond basic shapes and explore how things actually move. Small class sizes and low instructor to student ratio (max 8:1) mean every student gets hands-on support as they design, print, and problem-solve their way to a finished machine.
Llewellyn Elementary
Tuesdays after school from 2:30pm to 4:00pm (early release 11:50am to 1:20pm)
September 1st through October 20th, 8 sessions total
Open to 3rd Graders and above
New to 3D Printing? This is the perfect class for you! In this course, students become inventors, artists, and problem-solvers as they learn to design and print their own creations.
Each class features a new technique or design challenge, with plenty of time to explore and apply new skills to their own ideas.
Projects range from practical items like phone stands, fidgets, and organizers to creative builds like characters, miniatures, and original inventions. The focus is on making things students are excited to take home and actually use.
No experience needed. Our instructors work with each student at their own pace, whether they're brand new to 3D design or ready to tackle more advanced projects. Small class sizes and low instructor to student ratio (max 8:1) mean every student gets the support they need to succeed.
Tuesdays after school from 2:30pm to 4:00pm (early release 11:50am to 1:20pm)
September 1st through October 20th, 8 sessions total
Open to 3rd Graders and above
New to 3D Printing? This is the perfect class for you! In this course, students become inventors, artists, and problem-solvers as they learn to design and print their own creations.
-
Each class features a new technique or design challenge, with plenty of time to explore and apply new skills to their own ideas.
Projects range from practical items like phone stands, fidgets, and organizers to creative builds like characters, miniatures, and original inventions. The focus is on making things students are excited to take home and actually use.
No experience needed. Our instructors work with each student at their own pace, whether they're brand new to 3D design or ready to tackle more advanced projects. Small class sizes and low instructor to student ratio (max 8:1) mean every student gets the support they need to succeed.
Meet Our Instructors
Matthew Thogerson
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Matt is a maker, tinkerer, and creative problem-solver with a deep enthusiasm for hands-on learning.
He first got into 3D printing while designing a tabletop war game, and quickly discovered how powerful digital fabrication can be as a learning tool. Today, he uses 3D printing for everything from tabletop gaming and costuming to practical problem-solving around the house.
Matt has a strong passion for working with kids and helping them build confidence through creativity. He believes the best learning happens when curiosity leads and mistakes are treated as part of the process. At PDX MiniMakers, he enjoys helping students turn ideas into physical objects while learning how tools, technology, and imagination intersect.
He’s excited to be part of a community that encourages experimentation, critical thinking, and joyful making.
marney andersen
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Marney has over 20 years of corporate experience leading programs, leveraging technology, and mentoring teams. With a strong background in operations, project management, and technology implementation, she has experience in translating complex systems and processes into easy-to-understand language and ideas. Her experience onboarding clients to technology systems, training diverse groups, and creating clear, step-by-step learning materials translates into supporting students with digital tools, STEM activities, and structured enrichment programs. Marney excels at creating structured, engaging environments where young learners can thrive.
In addition to her professional background, Marney has been a Girl Scout Troop Leader for the better part of a decade. This opportunity has allowed her to lead hands-on education programs while also mentoring children in leadership, outdoor skills, STEM, and entrepreneurship. Her goal is to foster confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.
With a career in tech and a passion for working with children, Marney brings a unique blend of structure, creativity, and technological fluency. She is committed to creating safe, engaging, and tech-forward experiences that inspire curiosity, encourage creativity, and help children build skills for the future.
Josh Dunne
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Lifelong learner and tinkerer. Experienced mentor, educator, and creative problem solver.
Josh moved to Portland with his family in December 2019. His children have attended Abernethy, Hosford and Cleveland schools. Josh is also a volunteer for the Cleveland Weekend Warriors cleanup program. Prior to moving to Portland Josh was a Radiology PACS Administrator for UK Healthcare supporting highly complex diagnostic imaging applications and modalities. His background as a PACS Administrator was a perfect foundation for understanding 3D printing software and technologies. While in Kentucky Josh also enjoyed being an assistant coach with the elementary school cross country team.
Josh is a voracious learner and is constantly seeking out new technologies, modalities, mediums and workflows that he incorporates into a variety of hobbies. In his free time Josh loves to create custom DnD miniatures and is always working to improve his painting skills on them once complete. Josh also uses 3D printing technology to create a variety of different types of art, jewelry and other novelties that incorporate a range of mediums and workflows.
Josh is super excited about the opportunities that 3D printing provides young, inventive minds. He strives to provide a safe and collaborative environment that encourages fun and creative problem solving.
Everett Staley
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Everett has been a maker their whole life.
One childhood birthday gift was a set of tools and a workbench in the garage with "Everett's Shop" painted on the wall. From there, Everett has gained experience in a multitude of hands-on skills– some professionally, and more while working on projects with friends and family. From helping with home renovations and DIY projects to assisting with the construction of a straw bale and cob house in the Mojave. From trade school learning stringed instrument construction and repair, and lately wooden boats– they've discovered that their favorite way to learn and utilize creativity and constructive skills is collaboratively.
With their degree in Digital Information Technology, Everett finally got a chance to jump into 3D printing. First as a hobbyist, and then professionally while running the Makerspace in a Portland High School. There, they learned, experimented, taught, and eventually fell in love with the way Computer Aided Design programs and an affordable machine printing recycled plastic on one's desktop could allow anyone to make anything.
Today, Everett has plenty of projects and is always learning new skills and ways to make, modify, or repair things. What they are most excited about, though, is when someone else has an idea they really want to try, and Everett gets to help figure it out.