Discover the intricate balance of skill and artistry in welding. This comprehensive course, led by Mixxer Resident Artist Thaddeus Prevette, offers an introduction into the world of welding techniques and creative expression. The best part is - No Experience is Needed!

Over the two-day session, you'll gain hands-on experience with Arc Welding. Learn how to safely operate welding equipment, understand different metals and their properties, and master essential welding techniques like joint preparation, heat control, and puddle manipulation.

Beyond technical proficiency, this course introduces students to the artistic side of welding. Explore the possibilities of creating unique and visually stunning metalwork. Thaddeus will guide you through design concepts, project planning, and finishing techniques to help you bring your ideas to life.

This course is the perfect opportunity to ignite your creativity and forge your path in the world of metalworking. 

For rising 9th-12th graders

Date/Time: June 16-20, 9AM to Noon

Instructor: Thaddeus Prevette, Mixxer Resident Artist

Instructor Bio: Thaddeus Prevette is a sculpture artist who began working with three dimensional objects back in 2016. He graduated from Western Carolina University in 2020 with a BFA in studio art and graduated from East Carolina University with an MFA in sculpture in May of 2023. He participates in public art exhibitions and was commissioned for the design of the ECU 911 Memorial sculpture back in 2021. He works with recycled and repurposed material to create narrative artwork that is influenced by historic and modern mythologies.

Ever dreamed of rocking the party or crafting the perfect mix? "Spin It! DJ 101" is your chance to turn those dreams into reality!

This 3-day class dives into the exciting world of DJing. If you've already dabbled in making music, this course will take your skills to the next level. You'll learn the fundamentals of DJing, from beatmatching and mixing to using industry-standard software and equipment. Get hands-on experience creating your own music mixes, exploring different DJ techniques, and understanding the art of keeping the crowd moving. Get ready to unleash your inner DJ and spin your way to musical mastery!

For 

Title: Design It! From Concept to Creation

Description:

Got a brilliant idea you want to bring to life? Join veteran CTE teacher and Mixxer STEAM Instructor, Carrie Beach, for a week of hands-on design exploration! In this class, you'll learn the essential steps of the design process, transforming your initial spark of inspiration into a tangible project. Whether you're dreaming of a custom-designed skateboard, a unique piece of jewelry, a functional prototype, or something entirely different, this class will give you the tools and guidance to make it happen.

We'll dive into the core stages of design thinking:

You'll have access to a variety of shops and mediums, allowing you to experiment and bring your vision to life. Carrie will guide you through the process, offering personalized feedback and support every step of the way. Get ready to unleash your creativity and turn your ideas into reality!

Take your first steps into the exciting world of fashion with "First Steps in Fashion - Intro to Sewing"!

This comprehensive class will equip you with the essential skills to bring your fashion ideas to life. Learn to confidently operate a sewing machine, from threading the needle to mastering various stitches.

Dive into the world of patterns, understanding how to use existing ones and even creating your own unique designs. Explore the diverse applications of different stitches, discovering how they can add both functionality and flair to your creations. Throughout the class, you'll gain hands-on experience and build your skills, culminating in the creation of your very own garment.

Get ready to unleash your creativity and sew your way to stylish success!

For Makers in 6th-12th grade

Embark on a two-week fashion design journey, starting with the basics and culminating in sustainable creations! Week one, "First Steps in Fashion," will cover the essentials of sewing: learn to operate a sewing machine, understand and use patterns (and even create your own!), and explore a variety of stitches. You'll put your skills to the test by making your own garment. Week two, "Upcycled Fashion," dives into the exciting world of sustainable design. Discover how to deconstruct, reconstruct, and alter existing garments to create unique and stylish pieces. Learn textile manipulation and embellishment techniques to transform old clothes into fashionable new designs.

For Rising 6th-12th Graders

Dates: July 21 - August 1, 9AM to 12PM

Instructors:

First Steps: Savannah Shanley (she/her) joined the Mixxer staff as Events Manager in May of 2023 after graduating from Salem College. She loves all kinds of creative mediums including painting and printmaking but her biggest passion is the art of quiltmaking and fiber arts. She loves helping others to learn and share their creativity with the world. Stop by to say hello whenever you're at Mixxer!

Upcycled Fashion: June Jones, Mixxer Sewing Team Lead, will share her expertise throughout both weeks. All tools and materials are provided, and lunch is included. 

Unleash your inner engineer and build your own battle bot! This exciting two-day workshop, led by experienced robotics coach Precious McKoy, will introduce you to the world of robotics and engineering.

You'll learn essential skills like soldering, coding, and electronics to design and construct your own battle bot. You'll also explore the principles of mechanical design and learn how to build a sturdy robot that can withstand the rigors of battle.

Whether you're a budding engineer or a seasoned maker, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to learn new skills, have fun, and create something truly unique. Let's build, code, and battle! All tools and materials will be provided, and lunch will be included.

For Rising 6th-12th Grade

Date/Time: July 21-25, 9AM to 3PM

Instructor: Precious McKoy, Educator and Coach of the Shield First Robotics Team

Instructor Bio: Precious McKoy is a dedicated educator and passionate advocate for STEM education. As the Founder and Executive Director of the SHIELD Mentor Program, she has been instrumental in inspiring and empowering young minds. Through SHIELD, she has spearheaded robotics teams that have competed at the highest levels of FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), showcasing the incredible potential of young people.

Precious's commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and diversity in STEM education has made a significant impact on the community. She is dedicated to providing students with hands-on learning experiences that equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the 21st century.

Humans have been casting metal for aroud 6000 years. A copper frog is the oldest existing casting currently known; it is estimated that it was made in 3200 BC in Mesopotami. Modern casting can be much more complex, but it doesn't have to be.

In this  5-day program, students will learn about metal casting as an art form. Students will create molds that will be included in Mixxer's Night of Fire - Iron Pour event in September, plus make a metal casting to take home that week.

For Rising 9th-12th Graders

Instructor: Alan Shelton - Founder of Mixxer Community Makerspace

Dates/Time: July 28 - August 1, 9AM to Noon

Discover the art of sustainable fashion and learn how to upcycle existing garments into unique and stylish pieces. This two-day, 12-hour course will teach you the techniques of deconstruction, reconstruction, and alteration to create one-of-a-kind clothing items.

You'll learn to:

Deconstruct garments into usable materials

Design and pattern-making techniques

Sewing and stitching techniques

Textile manipulation and embellishment

Upcycling techniques like refashioning and repurposing

By the end of the course, you'll have the skills to transform old clothes into new, stylish pieces, reducing waste and expressing your individuality through sustainable fashion.All tools and materials will be provided, and lunch will be included.

For Rising 6th - 12th Grade Students

Date/Time: July 28 - August 1, 9AM to Noon

Instructor: June Jones, Mixxer Sewing Team Lead

Instructor Bio: MIXXER's own June Jones has been sharing her expertise and knowledge to members and offering a friendly hand in all their sewing projects. June has been sewing for as long as she can remember. Having had an established career as an electronics technician and running a business focused on sewing machine repairs, June can skillfully assess your project and give you guidance to help you achieve your vision.