Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take part in just the parts I want?

This course is intended to be taken as a whole and knowledge builds over the course. If the course does not sell out, we will open a limited number of spots in each of the sections for those who have an interest in just the introductory section or one of the deeper exploration months. If you are interested in one or two areas of fabrication, we suggest you start with a MakeHaven membership or explore our Events Calendar.

How much time will this take?

The exact amount of time will depend on your previous experience with tools, software and how quickly you learn new topics. We aim to have a weekly lecture, weekly student instructor meeting and individual project assignment each week. Our estimate is that this is achievable in 10 hours per week. For some it will be less, for others it will be more.

Who is this course designed for?

The course is designed for adults (18+) of all ages and backgrounds with an interest in fabrication for art, prototyping or just exploration and learning new skills. We designed the course with flexibility so that it can be completed by an individual while concurrently working a full time job. 

This course will help you discover the questions about fabrication you did not know to ask. It will introduce skills and understanding which are solid foundations on which you can build deeper skill in a specific area, while understanding how different areas and techniques of fabrication can be used to advance your project.

How much does the class cost?

The cost of the program is $1,500. Students need to be members of MakeHaven for 6 months in order to use the tools and complete projects, membership for 6 months is $300. In addition, students will have material costs related to their final project, and some class projects.

Total costs:
$1,500 Class Tuition
$300 Makerspace Membership (6 months, paid for seperately via the standard membership system)
$250 Materials (estimated)
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$2,050 estimated total cost

Are there payment plans? What if I cancel?

The course tuition has a $300 deposit due once accepted to the program. Then $200 is due at the start of each calendar month. Membership is also charged monthly at $50 per month. You can cancel at any time but forfeit the deposit and all prior payments.

What if I can't afford this course?

MakeHaven is committed to not allowing financial barriers prevent participation in the program. We received limited funding to provide scholarships to those who require financial assistance. We encourage you to apply regardless of your ability to pay, you will have an opportunity to request a scholarship in the application.

Will employers be interested in hiring me after this program?

 You will leave the course with hands on experience in a broad array of fabrications techniques and a portfolio of projects to show an potential employer. 

 Do I need to have a MakeHaven membership?

 Yes, you will need a membership so that you can use the shop and tools during the course (6 months). This will give you 24/7 access to all the tools.

Is this in person or online?

We are designing the class with safety at the forefront of our minds. The nature of using tools to fabricate means there will be regular onsite time required, although you can do most of this work on your own schedule in order to avoid groups of people. 

What certification do I get when I graduate?

Students who complete all the requirements of the course will received a frameable certificate of completion. Through the course students will also have earned many micro-credentials (badges) on MakeHaven's tools.

How many students will be participating?

Each cohort is a minimum of six committed students to and is caped at twelve students. 

What if I have no previous experience with fabrication?

No previous experience is required but it helps to have a little familiarity with tools. If you do not have some familiarity with using tools it will take more time and effort to complete the class. Our team will be happy to discuss any concerns and work to make a plan that has you on the right page.

What if I already have experience fabricating in some of these area?

Great, you will have a head start in those areas. The course aims to integrate knowledge from different areas of fabrication so you will learn how to connect your existing experience into a fuller understanding of how it works with other tools. 

What level of expertise will I gain in each of these areas? 

You will gain practical basic experience on how to operate key fabrication tools and an overall conceptual understanding of how these fabrication techniques are used in advanced manufacturing. 

Why take this course when all this information is available on the internet?

This course will take you through a coherent path of building skills in fabrication and receiving expert guidance and advice from the instructor.  

How do I become a student?

First official step is to complete the application. We will then set up a time for you to meet with both instructor and MakeHaven staff to talk about the course, answer any questions you may have. There is no specific experience requirement but applicants must show determination to complete course. It is our goal for the cohort to represent the diversity of New Haven and its surrounding areas.

If you have any questions about the course or would like more information, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at Ashley.Zdeb@makehaven.org.

After I graduate, what other courses and credentials can I peruse at MakeHaven?

There are advanced training that cover tools not covered in the Foundations which are great next steps. For example metal milling with the Bridgeport mill or lathe. 

MakeHaven is a NIMs certifying location for metal working and a Woodworking Careers Alliance (WCA) location for Woodworking.  Both of these industry recognized certifications require many hours of shop time and demonstration of specific skills. 

What is the final project all about?

The final project is your chance to be creative.  It is to build something creative and inventive that incorporates the skills you have learned over multiple units. It can be a work of art, a practical invention or just entertaining. Students will present their work, and consider what the next steps would be to scale up their idea.

How did you come up with the structure of this course?

This course owes its inspiration and much of its general structure and some of the content to Fab Academy (https://fabacademy.org/). We loved the Fab Academy concept but wanted to do something more customized to our location and stretched out over a longer period to make it possible to participate while carrying a full time job.