3D Printing

Getting Started with 3D Printing

Experience with 3D printing began in sixth grade, sparked by an early interest in engineering and hands-on problem solving. Learning to operate, troubleshoot, and design for 3D printers at a young age gave me a strong foundation in digital fabrication and iterative design, while also encouraging creativity and independent learning through experimentation.

Community Impact During COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, 3D printing skills were applied in support of large-scale community response efforts by helping produce and assemble PPE face shields for frontline workers. As part of this work, involvement expanded to include participation in the SOMA NJ 3D Printers Alliance, a regional collaborative that coordinated distributed manufacturing efforts across multiple makers. Together, the alliance delivered over 300,000 face shields to hospitals, first responders, and essential workers, demonstrating the impact of collective, community-driven use of rapid manufacturing technologies during a public health crisis.

Advanced Involvement in High School

Throughout high school, involvement with 3D printing expanded into more advanced applications, including printer maintenance, optimization, and management. This experience led to overseeing the operation of the school’s 3D printers for the FTC robotics teams, ensuring reliable performance, efficient material use, and high-quality prints to support prototyping and competition needs.

Print with Purpose:

I am a founding member of Print With Purpose, a community-driven initiative that leverages 3D printing technology to design and produce accessibility tools that support inclusive learning. The program brings together a small team of high school students to create low-cost, practical resources aimed at reducing barriers to education, with a particular focus on supporting individuals who are visually impaired. By prioritizing thoughtful design and real-world impact, Print With Purpose seeks to expand access to educational materials, promote equity in learning environments, and demonstrate how emerging technologies can be used to serve community needs.

Here is an article from my town's local newspaper covering Print with Purpose:

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