Studio 128 continues to grow and offer more resources in the Wilcox area. The space began a couple of years back as a makerspace for community members. This provided a space for anyone in the community to utilize as a resource for computer equipment usage, room for hosting a meeting, etc. 

Since then, the program has gained more computers, a variety of programs for people to access for continued education, as well as work programs. Their most recent program was their Technology Summer Program for youth ages 8-18. Here they could learn more about the T in STEM and explore technology further. 

What was the impact?

Students participated in a variety of projects during the camp using different technologies, with varying levels of difficulty to accommodate differing skill levels and interests. Each project involved computer control and programming; both Adafruit (Playground Circuit Express, Gemma, Trinket Mini Microcontroller) and Arduino Nano controllers were used.

Projects also used some combination of 3D printed parts, servos, gears, pots, and LEDs for the assembly and build of the physical device.  In each project, youth programmed the controller to operate the device. 

In rural communities, especially those that are lower on the income scale, it can be difficult for students to have access to their own computers or wifi. This usually sets them back from the students who have had the resources and experience to learn and work on computers. 

The program allows for students to have this same opportunity and has seen 65 youth in this one program. Studio 128 is bringing so many amazing resources to the Wilcox community, and we can’t wait to see what else happens.