Local nonprofit organization Newton's Road is teaming up with RJG, Inc. and the Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District (TBAISD) to donate up to three MakerBot 3D printers to Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS). The project's first 3D printer was placed at West Middle School earlier this year to test the potential for the the technology to be used in educational curriculum.

"When students design their own parts, they learn more than just science, math and computer skills," Instructional Technology REMC Specialist Michael George of TBAISD says of the printers. "They have to turn an abstract idea into a real part. We're teaching kids how to think critically and be entrepreneurial. Students can design a part and then make it available globally for sale all in the same day."

Interested TCAPS schools of all grade levels can find the application form online here. In addition to a written application, a 90-second video must be submitted summarizing the proposal and showing where and how the printed will be used. Proposals must be submitted by April 30.

“Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, has the potential to revolutionize manufacturing and the creative process,” says Newton's Road Executive Director Bill Myers. “Traverse City has an incredible legacy of manufacturing innovation. Newton’s Road is thrilled to have the opportunity to work with RJG to provide this opportunity to Traverse City area students and to continue this legacy.”