About TekVenture Makerspace
Makers Share Hundreds of Tools!
Discover the boundless opportunities for creative exploration within our makerspace. Unleash your imagination, innovate with like-minded individuals, and embark on a journey of learning and growth.
From hands-on workshops to collaborative projects, TekVenture Makerspace in Fort Wayne, Indiana offers a nurturing environment for makers of all backgrounds to thrive. Join us in cultivating new skills, making unforgettable memories, and embracing the spirit of innovation.
What is a Makerspace?
A makerspace is a collaborative workspace where people come together to create, invent, and learn. These spaces provide access to a variety of tools, materials, and resources for individuals interested in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) fields.
Makerspaces often offer workshops, classes, and events to help people develop new skills and work on projects.
TekVenture Makerspace in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a non-profit organization that serves as a hub for innovation, creativity, and hands-on learning in the community.
Where is TekVenture?
1830 Wayne Trace, Fort Wayne IN, 46803.
Park in the southeast corner and enter thru Door 8 near the large metal machine. We have two areas inside:
Area 3, Door 8: WoodWorx, Machine Shop, The Hot Shop, PrintWorx and the Artistic Attic.
Area 1, Door 7: ClayWorx, GlassWorx, ElectroWorx and Rapid Prototyping (Laser Cutter and 3D-printers)
Click Here for a map to our location!
How does TekVenture operate?
TekVenture operates entirely through the dedication of volunteers, with no paid staff, which allows us to maintain low membership costs. The Board of Directors is responsible for setting policy, approving significant expenditures, and overseeing major organizational decisions. Supporting the Board, the Advisory Committee conducts research on policies and community initiatives, providing well-informed recommendations.
Our workshops, referred to as Worx areas, are each overseen by an Area Manager who holds substantial authority to establish rules and manage operations in alignment with TekVenture’s mission of making tools accessible to the public. Each Worx area prominently displays the Area Manager’s photo, rules, and contact information for easy reference.
Routine issues are addressed by the shift supervisor or the respective Area Manager. More complex matters are discussed collaboratively during the weekly members’ dinner meeting held every Thursday at 6 PM.
How to get started
We invite you to visit TekVenture Makerspace during our Open Hours, when a shift supervisor is available to provide a guided tour and answer any questions you may have. Please share your interests and goals with us. If you decide to join, you may complete the membership waiver at that time.
We highly recommend attending our weekly Members Meeting held every Thursday at 6 p.m. This gathering offers a valuable opportunity to connect with experienced members who are eager to hear about your projects and offer guidance.
Upon joining, you will be required to sign an indemnity waiver acknowledging your agreement not to hold TekVenture Makerspace liable for any injuries, your commitment to abide by all rules, and consent for us to use your image for promotional purposes. You will also receive an orientation tour covering facility locations, safety protocols, and operational procedures. Copies of the Rules and Regulations and the Code of Conduct will be provided, and your acknowledgment will be documented.
Initially, access to the space is limited to Open Hours or times when accompanied by a key-holder. After a period of membership and demonstrated trust, you may request a key deposit to receive 24/7 access privileges, allowing you to utilize the space at your convenience.
Requirements for TekVenture Members
All participants are required to sign the Liability Release form. Upon registration, you will be provided with links and optional printed copies of the Rules and Codes of Conduct.
Children and teenagers must remain under the supervision and control of their parents or guardians at all times, unless guardianship has been formally delegated to another adult or instructor. We offer some toys and activities suitable for children—please inquire if interested. Unsupervised children may be at risk of injury.
Please adhere to appropriate safety attire: closed-toe shoes are mandatory. When operating or working near spinning or moving equipment, long hair must be securely tied back. Avoid loose clothing, sleeves, jewelry, ties, or any items that could become entangled in machinery. Personal protective equipment such as gloves, ear muffs, ear plugs, goggles, and eye protection are available for use.
Certain hazardous or complex equipment requires completion of designated training and successful passing of a competency test prior to use.
We ask all members and visitors to clean up after themselves, and if possible, assist with additional tidying. TekVenture operates entirely through volunteer efforts, with no paid staff. After using any machine, please move your project to your designated worktable or the Assembly Area. Once finished, return all TekVenture tools to their proper locations, clean your work surface, and sweep the area around you.
Project storage is available and must be used in accordance with the guidelines posted on the Storage Signs.