Igniting Innovation: UW-Stout's Make48 Event and its Network of Supporters

UW-Stout's Make48 competition is preparing to host another inspiring display of young minds, scheduled for October 4-6, 2024. The event, which challenges high school students to design and prototype new products within a 48-hour timeframe, is made possible by a robust network of sponsors and supporters, reflecting the collaborative spirit at the heart of innovation.

UW-Stout in Menomonie, WI

Host sponsor UW-Stout, along with challenge sponsor Derrick Building Solutions, are setting the stage for this exciting event. They're joined by an array of team sponsors, including prominent names such as Andersen Windows, Xcel Energies, OEM, TTM, Beloit, Racine, and Presto, who are directly empowering the young teams to transform their ideas into reality.

This year's event is further amplified by a diverse range of additional sponsors, showcasing the collaborative spirit and broad support for the next generation of innovators. Organizations such as Workforce Development, THE GREATER MENOMONIE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (GMDC), The Wisconsin Center for Manufacturing and Productivity (WCMP), Momentum West, Dunn Co. EDC, 3M, Valmet, Greater Beloit EDC, Stateline Manufacturing Assoc., Hendricks Foundation, Menomonie Tourism Bureau, and BioForward Wisconsin are contributing their resources and expertise to make this event a success.

Additionally, a group of dedicated national-level sponsors, including Fastenal, Lincoln Electric, ShopBot Tools, Epilog Laser, Gridlock Table, The Restorer, Quantum Coffee, Corteva Agriscience, Body Guard, Kreg Tools, The DeBruce Foundation, Carhartt, and Startland News, are providing year-round support to foster innovation and skill development throughout the country.

This diverse network of supporters and sponsors showcases a shared commitment to empowering the next generation of makers and innovators. Together, they are creating a vibrant ecosystem that encourages creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration, ultimately driving progress and positive change in the world.

The UW-Stout's Make48 competition serves as a powerful testament to the impact that collective support can have in nurturing the potential of young minds, and stands as an inspiring example of the collaborative spirit driving innovation forward.