Wabanaki in Motion NB: Roots to Stars

Programs and Workshops

Experiential learning

Age Ranges and Audience

Designed primarily for post-secondary students, young adults, community learners, and those exploring workforce opportunities. The core programming is tailored for ages 18+, with a minimum recommended age of 16+ due to equipment safety depending on workshop type and equipment uses.

Our hands-on workshops focus on experiential learning where participants actively create, build, design, and explore using modern technologies and creative tools. These workshops are specifically designed to encourage creativity and innovation, build confidence with technology, and foster problem-solving and collaboration. By integrating cultural expression and digital skills development, the program actively opens meaningful pathways for career exploration in STEAM fields.

Activities Available

3D Printing & Design: Participants learn how to utilize digital modeling software (Fusion 360 and TinkerCAD) to design and print custom objects, including personalized jewelry, keychains and tags, cultural symbols and artwork, LEGO-style brick design and industrial prototype creation using Bambu Lab 3D printers.
Laser Engraving & Digital Fabrication: Utilizing LightBurn software and digital fabrication tools, learners gain hands-on experience in cutting and engraving custom designs on various materials, creating items such as wooden ornaments, feather keychains, acrylic tags, custom signage and artwork.

Coding, Gaming & Interactive Technology: Through beginner-friendly platforms, participants explore coding fundamentals, interactive challenges, and arcade-style programming using Micro:bit, MakeCode Arcade kits, and electronics kits to build operational games and electronic sensor projects.
Electronics & Soldering: This workshop focuses on the mechanics of interactive electronics, LED circuits, beginner soldering boards, and technology repair and assembly basics.
Sewing, Embroidery & Wearable Design: Participants learn to combine traditional creative practices with digital embroidery equipment to customize apparel, craft drawstring bags, and design unique embroidered patches.

Cultural + STEAM Integration

Culture is integrated throughout all workshops and activities rather than treated as a separate component. This includes Indigenous-inspired design projects, cultural artwork and engraving, storytelling through gaming and digital media, and collaborative community-based creations.

By working on creative projects inspired by identity and place, and engaging in reflection and shared learning experiences, participants connect deeply with their heritage.

The intention is to create programming that feels relevant, meaningful, and connected to community while introducing learners to emerging technologies and future-focused skills.

Customizable Programming and Workshop Delivery

The Wabanaki in Motion NB: Roots to Stars Mobile Makerspace offers flexible and customizable programming designed to meet the needs, experience levels, and goals of each community, organization, or event. Programming allows workshops and activities to be adjusted based on participant age ranges, experience levels, workshop durations, community interests, event formats, and available space or setup requirements.

Flexible Level Delivery

Workshops can be delivered at different learning levels depending on participant experience and comfort with technology.

Introductory Level: Designed for participants with little or no previous experience. Focus areas include hands-on exploration, beginner-friendly activities, interactive demonstrations, and guided learning experiences that offer a creative introduction to technology. Examples include basic 3D printing, intro coding activities, beginner laser engraving, and simple electronics projects.
Intermediate Level: Designed for participants who are comfortable with basic concepts and ready for more independent project work. Focus areas include design workflows, problem solving, creative customization, multi-step projects, and collaborative learning. Examples include custom CAD design, interactive coding projects, advanced engraving setups, and multi-material fabrication.
Advanced or Specialized Workshops: Can be customized for focused skill development, longer workshop formats, or career exploration opportunities. Focus areas include project-based learning, technical workflows, industry-related tools, creative portfolio development, and applied technology skills. Examples include Fusion 360 design workflows, CNC fabrication projects, electronics and soldering builds, and digital fabrication intensives.

Modular and Interchangeable Structure Delivery

Programming is designed using a modular format, allowing workshop components and activities to be interchanged, combined, or adapted depending on the event or audience. This framework allows the WIM team to seamlessly mix technologies, create shorter interactive experiences, build multi-day intensive workshops, and fully customize programming to match community interests, available time, and onsite equipment.

Flexible Scheduling Formats

Short Stations: A single event may include a short 10 - 15 minute interactive stations for quick engagement.
Full-Day Programs: Schools or organizations may request comprehensive, full-day focused workshops.
Multi-Day Intensives: Extended programs may combine multiple technical disciplines into a single, deeper learning experience.

Interchangeable Module Examples

3D Printing + Laser Engraving: Combining digital modeling with physical fabrication.
Coding + Electronics: Connecting software fundamentals with practical hardware builds.
Gaming + Digital Storytelling: Translating traditional narratives into interactive media.
Sewing + Digital Design: Combining creative textile practices with modern design software.

Community-Focused Delivery

Programming is intended to remain flexible and community-centered. Workshops can be customized to support cultural themes, community interests, STEAM learning goals, creative projects, career exploration opportunities, and event or conference engagement activities. The goal is to create programming that is accessible, engaging, culturally grounded, and adaptable to a variety of learning environments and participant needs.