We’re excited to dust off the Talent Maker City blog and share a story we’re really proud of - the wrap-up of our recent RISE (Reach. Innovate. STEAM. Externship) Cohort internship program.
First and foremost, this program was made possible through our partnership with Rogue Workforce Partnership, whose support helps create meaningful workforce development opportunities for youth across our region. Their investment allows programs like RISE to connect hands-on learning with real-world job skills.
And wow! This group of students showed up ready.
Engagement That Was Off the Charts
From the very beginning, the students were deeply engaged. Many had already participated in Talent Maker City programs or were referred by trusted community partners, and it created a cohort that connected quickly.
They collaborated naturally, supported each other, and even started hanging out outside of program hours (including a well-earned group pizza outing). When a cohort bonds like that, good things happen.
Kolby Schooley, our Operations Director shared, “Watching and listening to the cohort reflect about skills, learned or practiced, at the end of each day became some of my favorite moments. They each took time to listen and share with each other in a beautiful and kind way.”
Small Batch Manufacturing Success
One of the major goals of the cohort was learning small batch manufacturing, and the students absolutely crushed it.
They designed and produced a laser-engraved box to hold our new felting kits, and they didn’t stop there. They also designed the instructional directions that go inside the kits, learning how good product design includes thinking about the user experience.
“I really enjoyed getting to work on the design process, and found myself very engaged in working with small batch manufacturing, so if possible I would’ve loved to work on that some more. But honestly this whole program felt very well rounded and engaging in each department. “ - Elyana (RISE student intern)
Alongside that work, they also started beautiful watercolor craft kits with thoughtful packaging and clear directions. These were real products - thoughtfully designed and ready for use. They got to a good stopping point and left notes so that they can be completed for the next cohort.
From Concept to Customer
Students explored what it takes to move an idea all the way to a finished product. One student dove deep into the “concept to customer” process, conducting user research and even calling workshop participants to learn about their experience and how the kits could improve.
That kind of initiative is exactly what we hope to see.
Real-World Skills
Throughout the program, students practiced professional skills that matter in the workplace:
Writing professional emails to local businesses requesting material donations
Learning Google Workspace tools like Gmail, Drive, and Calendar
Tracking work through our collaborative project sheets
Communicating with department leads and instructors
They also helped maintain the makerspace through routine cleaning and shop organization, an important part of any shared workspace.
“I improved greatly with my teamwork and collaboration skills. I think my skills as a leader have improved as well.” -Jackson (RISE Student Intern)
Students even contributed to a real production project, helping laser engrave coasters for Central Art Supply and signs for Ashland Art Galleries while managing their own kit development projects.
Ownership and Teamwork
One of the most exciting shifts was watching students take increasing ownership of the work.
Each session ended with students summarizing what they completed and planning what needed to happen next week. Over time, instructors stepped back as students stepped forward, taking on leadership and project management roles within the team.
As Molly Acord, Community Partner and Project Coordinator, shared:
“I loved seeing the students take ownership as a team over the kits, and watching them go from an idea to a physical product was so gratifying!”
Community Support
The students also connected with local businesses, including RB Custom Upholstery, which generously donated foam remnants for the felting kits. The cohort made sure to give them a well-deserved thank-you shout-out in the kit instructions.
That kind of community recycle loop is exactly what Talent Maker City is all about.
Watching Students Shine
More than anything, this cohort reminded us how powerful it is when young people are given the chance to step up, collaborate, and create something real together.
“It was amazing to watch the students rise to the challenges of this internship. As they worked together to create the kits, you could see their confidence growing and their teamwork really shine.” ~ Amy Godard, Visual Arts Department Lead.
We’re incredibly proud of this group and grateful to Rogue Workforce Partnership for helping make this opportunity possible.
If this cohort is any indication, the future of making - and our community - is in very good hands.
Feeling inspired to give it a try?
Stop by the makerspace and grab one of these student-designed kits for just $25. Each kit comes packed in a laser-engraved wooden box and includes foam, two felting needles, finger guards, wool felt, and a tutorial to make a charming little chicken. *While supplies last.
Hope to see you in the shop,
Alli + the TMC team
YOU+MAKE+TALENT
