Press releases

3D printers hum, robots move across tables, and students work together to bring their own ideas to life: “Makerspaces” are increasingly becoming creative workshops of the future at schools in the Aachen region. Supported by the zdi Network Aachen & Heinsberg District and coordinated by the City of Aachen’s Economic Development Agency, these spaces are becoming learning environments that go far beyond traditional classroom instruction.

With the network’s support, modern “makerspaces” have already been set up at several schools—including the Rhein-Maas High School, the Couven High School, and the Anne Frank High School in Laurensberg. The goal is to give young people early access to technology, digitalization, and creative project work.

“Now more than ever, young people need spaces where they can test out their ideas and get creative on their own,” says Kathrin Futterlieb from the City of Aachen’s Economic Development Office and a staff member of the zdi Network Aachen & Heinsberg District. “In ‘makerspaces,’ young people not only learn technical skills but also build self-confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills—competencies that are incredibly important for their future.”

A Hands-On Approach Instead of Passive Media Consumption
The students are very enthusiastic. Instead of learning solely through theory, they can develop their own projects there, make mistakes, find solutions, and experience firsthand how an idea turns into something that actually works. It is precisely this hands-on approach that motivates many young people so strongly. Whether it’s robotics, 3D printing, programming, media projects, or creative technical ideas—the possibilities in “makerspaces” are diverse and provide a counterbalance to what is often passive media consumption.

“Makerspaces foster a culture of experimentation and creativity,” explains Eda Körner-Tezer, project coordinator for the zdi network in Aachen and the Heinsberg district. “There, young people discover their talents, develop new interests, and learn that technology can be fun. These are exactly the kinds of experiences we need to inspire young people to pursue STEM careers and innovative fields of the future.”

Volunteers Wanted
: The zdi Network would therefore like to support even more schools in setting up such creative learning spaces in the future. However, to keep “makerspaces” vibrant, we also need dedicated people who are willing to share their experience and knowledge.

Schools themselves also want more support from the community. “We see time and again how valuable the exchange between young people and experienced professionals in technical fields is,” says Simon Roth of Couven Gymnasium in Aachen. “Retired engineers, tradespeople, and tech enthusiasts, in particular, could make an incredible difference here. Even just a few hours of support each month can make a huge difference for students.”

We are looking for volunteers with backgrounds in technology, the trades, digitalization, or the natural sciences who are interested in mentoring young people, working together on projects, or simply sharing their enthusiasm for technology.

The zdi Network Aachen & Heinsberg District is already involved in numerous projects to promote STEM education—ranging from workshops and robotics programs to summer camps and technology projects designed specifically for girls. It is also continuously expanding its partnerships with regional companies and schools.

For more information about the zdi Network Aachen & Heinsberg District and current projects, please visit the network’s website: www.zdi-aachen.de