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Innovating to Protect Critical Workers and Volunteers

As news across the globe pronounced a shortage of protective equipment for critical workers at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pasadena Educational Foundation turned to its longstanding 3D printing program in Pasadena Unified (PUSD) to focus on solutions.

Soon after schools closed and distance learning went into effect, staff collected 18 of the 3D printers from various PUSD schools and brought them all to a new 3D Design Workshop at John Muir High School Early College Magnet, known for its popular Engineering and Environmental Science Academy and innovative 3D printing program.

Teams used the printers to produce protective equipment for food service workers, volunteers, and healthcare workers. [Read More]

PUSD•3D Imagine it…print it!

The Pasadena Educational Foundation helped to create a new model for teaching innovation in PUSD schools with the introduction of 3D printing technology. Thanks to the support of a generous donor, incorporating 3D printers in the schools gave PUSD students the opportunity to get their hands on exponential technology so they could utilize their creativity and collaboration skills to help them be prepared for the jobs of tomorrow.

What is a 3D printer?

The concept is quite simple. Instead of printing one layer like on paper, a 3D printer melts plastic filament, then draws with it in a very fine layer. The printer then builds another fine layer of plastic on top of this one, and then another, and another, building your idea in slices from the bottom up until you have a plastic object ready to hold.

Why is access to 3D printer technology important for schools?

Access to 3D printing technology, or desktop fabrication, helps PUSD schools to become 21st century teaching environments with the ability to teach the skills that our students are going to need to be successful in the future.

In their report, the New Media Consortium (a global advisory board of education thought leaders) and the IEEE identified 3D printers in schools as one of the top technologies, trends, and challenges that will impact STEM+ education over the next five years.

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3D Printing is allowing students to bring their ideas to life. PUSD teachers and students have  3D printers and instruction in our schools to help them learn core science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) principles.

3D Printers Impact in Our Schools

Not only will 3D printers greatly impact STEM+ education but all exponential technologies will pave the way for incredibly customized internet connected objects, information enabling all learning environments and continue the rapid adoption of emerging technologies that will have a massive impact on a huge amount of industries.

Such as:

  • Medical and Pharmaceutical
  • Architecture
  • Entertainment, Gaming, and Film
  • Industrial
  • Consumer-products

And many more…

All our PUSD campuses now have 3D printers.

Support Innovative Technologies

3D Printers in schools is just one of the many ways the Pasadena Educational Foundation helps to create a vibrant and enriching educational experience for all public school children in Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre.

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