Cortez Makerspace
LEARN. CREATE. INNOVATE.
HOURS
Tuesday-Thursday 12:00 PM-8:00 PM
Friday-Saturday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Sunday-Monday Workshops & Events
The Cortez Makerspace is an innovation hub that offers access to creative tools, technology, and shared workspace. Current offerings include 3D printing, laser cutting, textiles, silversmithing, virtual reality, large-format printing, and digital design resources, along with space for workshops, classes, and collaborative projects.
The Makerspace supports students, entrepreneurs, artists, and community members through hands-on learning, workforce skill development, and creative problem-solving. The Makerspace is an inclusive, community-driven space designed to strengthen the local creative economy. Equipment and programming will continue to evolve based on community input. Memberships, classes, and community events are available.
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.
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:
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Offering technical workshops for both youth and adults.
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Creating certification pathways in solar energy, digital fabrication, and trades.
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Providing startup support for local entrepreneurs.
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Becoming a central piece of Cortez’s push to become a Colorado Creative Arts District.
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, a permanent location is here! And we’re building more and more every day for Cortez and beyond.
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.
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.
THE SPACES
LAZER LAB
At the Cortez Makerspace, we use two complementary laser systems, the AP Lazer SN2816DLR and the WeCreat Laser, to serve different learning and production needs. Together, they allow users to cut and engrave materials like wood, acrylic, leather, and cardboard, while supporting both beginner-friendly projects and more advanced fabrication.
VIRGA DIGITAL DESIGN
& FABRICATION STUDIO
The Virga Design and Fabrication Studio is a digital creation space where ideas take shape. With tools for 3-D modeling, photo editing, and design, the studio supports everything from prototyping and creative projects to skill building and entrepreneurship. It connects digital skills to real world making, helping users move from concept to creation.
3-D PRINTING LAB
The 3D Printing Lab provides access to advanced additive manufacturing tools, including Bambu Lab filament printers and resin printers with materials available on site. The lab supports prototyping, learning, and small scale production, helping users move from digital designs to high quality physical parts and products.
VIRTUAL REALITY ZONE
The VR Zone offers immersive experiences for learning, exploration, and skill development. Through simulations and interactive environments, users can explore careers, practice techniques, and build confidence in a safe, engaging way.
SILVERSMITHING STATION
The Silversmithing Station supports hands on metalwork using traditional tools and techniques for shaping, soldering, and finishing. This space focuses on craftsmanship, material understanding, and creative skill building, allowing users to create custom jewelry and metal pieces through direct, tactile making.
SEW EASY
SEWING STATION
Sew Easy, the Sewing Lab, offers access to sewing machines, sergers, an embroidery machine, and essential tools for designing, repairing, and creating textile projects. The space supports skill building, creative expression, and small scale production, from learning the basics to developing products for small businesses and workforce pathways.
Workshops & Events
From beginner friendly classes to skill building workshops and creative community events, these gatherings are a chance to learn new tools, meet other makers, and turn ideas into real projects.
Whether you are here to try something new or deepen a skill, our programming is built to support curiosity, collaboration, and growth.
HISTORY OF THE MAKERSPACE
2024
The Entrepreneurship Program officially launched in partnership with Southwest Open School (SWOS). Students developed real-world business ideas, one of which sparked the concept for the Cortez Makerspace. Building on the momentum of the Entrepreneurship Program, we began active development of the Cortez Makerspace. With two 3D printers secured, we launched early programming using a mobile trailer at SWOS, offering hands-on access to tools and workshops ahead of securing a permanent facility.
2025
The official Cortez Makerspace building was purchased. Construction and significant remodeling were completed to transform the space into a fully functioning community innovation hub equipped for fabrication, workshops, and workforce development programming.
2026
The Cortez Makerspace officially opened to the public in January with a strong turnout from the community, marking a major milestone in expanding access to hands-on training, entrepreneurship, and workforce opportunity in Montezuma County!
TODAY
The Cortez Makerspace is alive and growing every day. Weekly workshops are bringing new faces into the space, memberships are steadily increasing, and the building is filled with people actively creating, learning, and building their own projects. What started as a student-led idea is now a functioning community hub where innovation is happening in real time. From first-time makers to experienced creators, the space is being used exactly as intended:
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.
University of Colorado Boulder
Fort Lewis College
LOR Foundation
Partners, Sponsors, and Schools
