Tynkertopia MakerSpace Grand Opening!
In January 2026, Tynkertopia proudly celebrated the Grand Opening of Tynkertopia MakerSpace, a bold new chapter in our mission to empower young people through creativity, inquiry, and real-world learning. Located at 1515 E. Cedar Avenue, Suite D2, Flagstaff, AZ Tynkertopia MakerSpace expands our impact by serving teens and young adults ages 14–26, with a strong focus on workforce development, STEAM skills, and career exploration. More than 200 community members gathered to mark the occasion—families, educators, partners, elected officials, and young people eager to explore what this new space makes possible. The energy in the room reflected what MakerSpace is all about: curiosity, collaboration, and opportunity.
Community Leaders, Shared Vision
The Grand Opening program featured inspiring remarks from former Flagstaff Mayor Dr. Coral Evans, current Mayor Becky Daggett, and Coconino County Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez, each emphasizing the importance of investing in youth, equitable access to opportunity, and workforce readiness. Their presence underscored a shared community commitment to ensuring that all young people, especially those historically underrepresented in STEAM fields, have pathways to meaningful futures right here in Northern Arizona.
What Is Tynkertopia MakerSpace?
Tynkertopia MakerSpace is designed as a hands-on, future-focused learning environment where teens and young adults can build technical skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging. Participants explore tools and technologies such as:
3D printing and digital fabrication
Laser cutting and design software
Sewing, textiles, and creative production
Engineering, electronics, and prototyping
Career exploration and workforce-aligned learning experiences
Through guided workshops, open lab time, and mentorship, MakerSpace helps young people connect their interests to real careers—whether in technology, trades, design, entrepreneurship, or creative industries.
Built on a Strong Foundation
Tynkertopia MakerSpace builds on nearly eight years of impact, during which Tynkertopia has served an average of 10,000 children, youth, and family members each year. Founded by Dr. Alice Christie, an educator with nearly six decades of experience, Tynkertopia has long believed that learning is most powerful when young people are trusted to tynker, experiment, and learn by doing. Our MakerSpace brings that philosophy to an older age group, responding directly to community needs for workforce development, career awareness, and accessible skill-building opportunities.
Looking Ahead
The Grand Opening was not just a celebration; it was a promise. A promise to continue creating inclusive spaces where young people feel seen, capable, and inspired. A promise to strengthen partnerships with schools, workforce agencies, and local employers. And a promise to keep Flagstaff a place where innovation, creativity, and community thrive together.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us to make this milestone possible. We can’t wait to see what our teens and young adults will create next.
Come visit us, take a class, or get involved. This is just the beginning.
