3D printing demonstration open to the public

The Canfield Local School District hosted a 3D printing and additive manufacturing demonstration and open house at C.H. Campbell Elementary May 22 from 6-8 p.m. The Canfield High School FIRST robotics team demonstrated their competition robots. Currently, INVENTORcloud is offered at Canfield High School.

Alex Geordan, Superintendent says, “INVENTORcloud will be expanded to Canfield Middle School next school year and be offering STEM experiences in our elementary buildings. We are also excited to be partnering with the Mahoning County Educational Service Center to bring a STEM school to the valley for ninth- and tenth-grade students.”

INVENTORcloud Program offers a series of courses for students in elementary, middle and high school that brings together design thinking with the opportunity use 3D printers. Students study the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) disciplines, learn how to work in teams, problem solve and use solid modeling software programs. While working in teams, they are given challenges such as redesigning a common household product or designing a futuristic car in which they have to create their own prototypes.

Developed by Applied Systems & Technology Transfer, LLC (AST2) which is headquartered in the Youngstown Business Incubator, INVENTORcloud is offered in several Mahoning Valley school districts. AST2 also developed the INVENT3D Printer which is designed to allow teams of students to assemble, use the printer to build their own prototypes and then dissemble the printer for use by the next team of students.

“INVENTORcloud helps prepares students for life-long success, regardless of career goals. Problem solving, creativity, communication and teamwork are crucial life skills.” said Jack Scott, President of AST2.