Norco College’s Makers and Rocketry clubs proudly represented the institution at the 2024 Orange County Maker Faire this past weekend, where they showcased their creativity and ingenuity to a wide audience of curious minds and potential collaborators. Led by faculty members Farshid Mirzaei and Dr. Khosrow Rad, 12 students spent two full days engaging with the public, answering questions, and demonstrating student-made projects at the Norco College booth.
The Orange County Maker Faire, now in its fourth year, is a celebration of innovation, attracting engineers, artists, scientists, crafters, and hobbyists from all backgrounds. This year’s event saw even more participants, with a diverse mix of makers showcasing cutting-edge projects, experiments, and inventions. The Norco College booth was a hub of activity, where event-goers could learn more about the college’s STEM programs and its thriving community of makers and innovators.
Norco’s Booth Highlights:
Students from the Makers and Rocketry clubs displayed a variety of projects that spanned several disciplines. From 3D-printed models to mechanical prototypes and rocket designs, the booth drew attention from visitors interested in learning more about the technical skills and creative problem-solving involved in the student projects. The opportunity to interact with the students, who offered insights into their design and production processes, gave visitors a closer look into the hands-on learning experiences offered at Norco College.
A Platform for Future Entrepreneurs and Inventors
The Orange County Maker Faire has become a key venue for individuals who are passionate about transforming their ideas into businesses. Each year, the event serves as a launching pad for new technologies and entrepreneurial ventures, and the 2024 edition was no different. Norco College students not only shared their projects but also had the chance to network with other makers, professionals, and industry leaders.
“The Maker Faire is an incredible opportunity for our students to demonstrate their skills, build connections, and see firsthand how creativity can lead to real-world innovation,” said Farshid Mirzaei, Norco College faculty and Makers Club advisor. “Our students gain valuable exposure to a wide range of technologies and ideas, which helps them understand how their own work could make an impact beyond the classroom.”
Inspiring the Next Generation of Makers
The atmosphere of the Maker Faire, which celebrates experimentation and the joy of learning, provided Norco students with a platform to share their passion with the community while inspiring the next generation of makers. The interactive experience at the Norco booth offered attendees a chance to see how creative problem-solving, combined with technical skills, can produce tangible, meaningful results.
“The energy at the Maker Faire is always amazing. It’s not just about showing what we’ve built, but also about learning from others and being inspired by their projects,” said one student from the Norco Rocketry Club. “It’s great to be part of a community that’s always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”
Norco College’s participation in the 2024 Orange County Maker Faire underscores its commitment to hands-on, experiential learning, fostering an environment where students can explore their interests, develop practical skills, and turn innovative ideas into reality.
About Norco College
Norco College offers a range of programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), with a focus on providing students with the skills and experiences they need to succeed in today’s innovation-driven world. The Makers and Rocketry clubs are just two of the many opportunities available to students looking to expand their horizons and engage in hands-on, project-based learning.
MESA Program
The Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program at Norco College supports students from diverse backgrounds pursuing degrees in STEM fields. MESA provides academic support, hands-on experience, and professional development through mentoring, workshops, and internships. The program aims to help students excel in their studies and prepare for successful transfer to four-year universities and careers in STEM disciplines. With a focus on underrepresented groups, MESA fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment that encourages innovation and academic achievement. Learn more about the MESA program by visiting their MESA website.