By Kevin Greer
Lakeside Communications Manager
When Andy Bruening’s parents bought a house on Johnson’s Island in the 1980s, he spent many summer hours working at Lakeside. Decades later, he’s coming back to the community to launch a new high-tech learning space.
Bruening will open LEMI Labs (Lakeside Education Maker and Invention) in the former Chautauqua Hall (236 Walnut Ave.) on Friday, May 22, the same day the gates go down to begin the summer season. A ribbon-cutting will take place at 10 a.m.
“I lost my job in December, and I was thinking, ‘What could I do?’” Bruening said. “Then the idea of opening my own space to do this sort of thing just kind of happened, and the timing was right.”
Bruening brings a long list of experience in science, technology and education to this venture. He earned an undergraduate degree in marine science from Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida, and a PhD in geology from the University of South Carolina. His teaching career began in 2006 as the first science teacher at Metro Early College High School in Columbus, Ohio’s first Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) school. He has also coached a For Inspiration of Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics team for 17 years.
In 2010, Bruening helped establish a Fab Lab, a small-scale workshop equipped with advanced digital manufacturing technology, at the school. The lab started with three printers and several Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines to support engineering and project-based learning.
“I used to lecture and then give tests,” Bruening said. “Once I started the Fab Lab, it became hands-on: build it, make it, break it and do it again.”
Bruening plans to bring that same approach to LEMI Labs. Sessions will combine creative design and computer classes. Participants will use 3D printers, laser cutters, a desktop CNC machine and vinyl cutters as part of the hands-on experience. If someone encounters a problem, the tools are available to help solve it.
Bruening also has more sophisticated equipment, including an xTool F2 Ultra fiber laser capable of cutting plastics, wood and thin metals while also engraving metal. The xTool M1 Ultra functions as a four-in-one machine that can print and cut vinyl. Students will complete safety training before using any equipment.
“This is the stuff that’s becoming more accessible,” Bruening said. “I want people to feel comfortable using it.”
Several summer programs through LEMI Labs are already planned. Erie Monster Makers will give younger children the opportunity to create projects ranging from simple cardboard and popsicle stick builds to more advanced creations depending on their experience level.
Bruening said the minimum for certain classes will be third grade, and there will also be opportunities for adults. Evening sessions will be available to allow families to participate in maker nights and create projects such as engraved water bottles. The goal, he said, is to introduce both children and adults to digital and advanced fabrication.
“I really want to get everybody in to see what’s happening,” Bruening said. “Lakeside is a place where the older adults are teaching the younger kids how to sail and things like that. Now it’s flipping the script and getting the kids to teach their grandparents and parents all this different technology because the kids work with the stuff at school.”
Bruening believes Lakeside is the ideal place to start his business. While working at the PAST Foundation in Columbus, he saw strong participation in summer educational programs and believes there will be similar interest among Lakesiders of all ages.
“Instead of the kids playing on their phones or computers all day, come in, use this fun equipment and learn something,” Bruening said. “Kids are surprised when I tell them they’re learning some engineering.”
Registration will take online and in person. Times and costs will vary depending on class length. Youth sessions will run 9-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday while afternoon classes will feature two-hour workshops focused on 3D printing and the basics of vinyl and laser cutters. Those sessions may include mixed-age groups.
Bruening spent several weeks preparing the space ahead of opening day. He even designed lampshades using the equipment to add his own creative touch to his business.
“I’m just really excited about what this will be,” Bruening said. “I want people not to be afraid to try new things. Go out, try, learn and use these tools and experiences to help with whatever that next thing is for you.”
