Learn to design and build with laser cutters & 3D printers
Got an idea? Learn to design it, laser-cut it, and 3D print it, with mentors who build for a living.
- The QA, our Fabrication Crew, builds and tests every project first.
- Educators bring those projects to K–12 classrooms.
- Kids 6+ complete projects at school, or in the community with their families.
Make something together.
What is advanced manufacturing?Using computers and machinery to make stuff.
Hands-on making for kids 6 and up and their families, at community events and workshops across Louisiana. Design it on the computer, cut it on the laser, and take it home.
Coming up for families
Our mission Help young people use the fabrication process to fuel their passion and find their path. Read our story →
Real students. Real projects.
Stay in the loop
News for everyone: upcoming workshops, events, and opportunities.
- New workshop and event dates
- Family projects and pop-ups near you
- News when the next QA cohort opens
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What to know about The QA
The QA gives your teen hands-on training on professional tools, guided by mentors who work in the industry, with a stipend for their time. Here's how we keep it safe and keep you informed.
Safety & supervision
Two adults are always in the room. Sessions happen in public spaces, like library makerspaces, or at your teen's own school.
Who works with your teen
Mentors are chosen for their industry skills and their experience working with young people. Every adult who works directly with youth completes a background check.
Permission & consent
If your teen is under 18, we contact you before they start. You'll sign a participation form, an emergency contact form, and a media release.
Photos & media
We take photos and videos of youth at work to share what they make. You can opt out on the media release.
Getting there
We offer a transportation stipend to help your teen get to and from sessions.
The stipend
High school interns receive at least $1,500 per term, and schedules follow Louisiana's rules for students under 18. Stipends arrive twice a month, on the 15th and the last working day, by direct deposit or a reloadable card.
Staying in the loop
You're invited to a family showcase to see what your teen designed and built.
Questions?
Email hey@profabed.org. At orientation, you'll get a direct contact for your teen's program.