Wayne State University Teams Battle for a Spot at Nationals
- Make48+Team
- 48 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Detroit, MI (May 14, 2026) – This past April, the innovative spirit of Make48 made its way to Detroit for a special collaboration with the Wayne State University C2 Pipeline program. As the only licensed Make48 event of the 2026 season, the competition brought a unique energy to the university, focusing on empowering the next generation of makers and problem-solvers.
From Friday, April 17th, through Sunday, April 19th, the campus became a hub of high-speed invention. Seven incredible teams took on the challenge of “Enhancing the Warrior Experience: Innovation for WSU Athletic Facilities”, moving from a blank page to a physical prototype in just one weekend. The C2 Pipeline program, which focuses on college and career readiness, provided the perfect backdrop for this intensive hands-on experience.
Ensuring the weekend’s success was Make48 Event Director, Courtney Rosenquist. For Courtney, the trip to Detroit was a success. She worked closely with the local organizers to ensure the teams had everything they needed to cross the finish line.
“Working alongside the WSU C2 Pipeline team was truly something special,” Courtney expressed. “Their passion and commitment to creating an unforgettable experience for their students made this event one of the highlights of the season. I was incredibly impressed by the site coordinators who stepped up as team captains and led with confidence, encouragement, and heart. Watching students collaborate side by side, support one another, and turn big ideas into pure magic in just 48 hours was a powerful reminder of why Make48 exists in the first place.”
The stakes were high for these seven teams, as the first-place winner secured more than just local bragging rights. The top-performing team from Warren Woods Tower has officially earned its spot at the Make48 Nationals this September, where they will represent Wayne State University on the national stage!
The atmosphere throughout the 48 hours was a mix of grit and creativity. With limited time and zero sleep, the participants pushed the boundaries of what is possible, proving once again that the maker community in Detroit is as strong as ever.
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About Wayne State University
Wayne State University is Michigan's premier urban research institution, dedicated to a mission of creating and advancing knowledge while preparing a diverse student body to thrive in a global landscape. As a vital pillar of the Detroit community, Wayne State is guided by a commitment to improve lives, foster discovery, and strengthen the bonds that connect the university to the city and beyond. Driven by their 2022-27 Strategic Plan, "Our Warriors" engage in meaningful work to create change and drive the future. Whether supporting faculty in advancing innovation or empowering students to achieve shared success, Wayne State continues to be a catalyst for growth in Michigan and across the world. To learn more about how Wayne State is driving shared success, visit their website or explore the full details of their current strategic plan. https://wayne.edu/
About Make48
Make48 is a nationwide invention competition docuseries that gives teams a challenge at the start of a three-day event. With just 48 hours, teams must create a prototype, promotional video, and sales sheet, and present their idea to a panel of judges. The teams have access to a makerspace and numerous Tool Techs that can make almost anything, patent attorneys, marketing experts, and more. This format allows everyone to have a level playing field and the chance to win, with no prior technical knowledge necessary.
Make48 Media Contact
Cassandra Muñoz