A Space Sparked by Students

Born from a student project in our Entrepreneurship Program, the Makerspace began as an idea — a place where young people could create with tools they’d never otherwise touch. Within months, that vision turned into reality: a mobile makerspace trailer equipped with 3D printers and hands-on programming launched in 2024. Now, with a permanent location on the horizon, we’re building a full-scale facility for Cortez and beyond.
 

What Is the Cortez Makerspace?

It’s more than a building — it’s a launchpad for innovation, learning, and opportunity. Whether you're a student designing a product, an artist exploring new mediums, or a tradesperson sharpening your skills, the Makerspace provides the resources to bring your ideas to life.

Inside the space, you’ll find:

• 3D Printing Lab for rapid prototyping.

• CNC Machining Lab and Woodshop for trades-based learning.

• Laser Cutting Studio and Digital Design Suite for creatives and entrepreneurs.

• Commercial Kitchen for food-based business startups.

• Youth Innovation Zone – including the student-led NirvaNA sober bar.

• Community Hub for meetups, exhibitions, and collaborative projects.
   

Why It Matters

Cortez, Montezuma County, and the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation face real economic challenges — low wages, limited access to training, and few creative outlets. The Makerspace changes that by:

• Offering technical workshops for both youth and adults.

• Creating certification pathways in solar energy, digital fabrication, and trades.

• Providing startup support for local entrepreneurs.

• Becoming a central piece of Cortez’s push to become a Colorado Creative Arts District.
   

Designed for All

Whether you're a teen experimenting with robotics or a local business developing a new product line, the Makerspace is for you. Programming is tailored to diverse needs — from introductory STEM activities to advanced manufacturing projects.

And thanks to partnerships with institutions like Fort Lewis College and CU Boulder, we’ll offer access to micro-credentials, research opportunities, and workforce development programs.
 

A Vision in Progress

In 2025, we’re:

• Expanding mobile programming and launching new workshops.

• Finalizing our permanent site and completing renovations.

• Opening doors for early memberships and public events.

• Piloting NirvaNA, a youth-run café and sober space, right inside the Makerspace.

By 2026, the Cortez Makerspace will be a self-sustaining hub for innovation, education, and economic growth — built by the community, for the community.
 

Get Involved

Want to join? Learn? Teach? Build? The Makerspace is your space. From monthly memberships to one-time workshops and collaborative events, there are dozens of ways to get involved.

Together, we’re not just learning new skills — we’re shaping the future of Cortez.