Mak

United States

Māk is a social enterprise devoted to empowering urban low-income high school students to become designers. The organization provides 3D design training through an intensive program, followed by paid internships on projects for partner startups. Māk aims to set students up for future careers in the STEAM fields by not only offering training but also hands-on design experience and industry connections.

Project Stage

Ideation

Implementation time

1 - 6 months

Total Cost

$8,000.00

Last update: October 05, 2023

Overview Contributors

Challenge

There is a significant gap in financial inclusion and opportunities for youth from low-income and minority backgrounds in the STEAM fields. High school students from these demographics often lack access to quality education and professional-level training in 3D design, which limits their career prospects.

Description

Māk addresses this issue by introducing low-income youth to the STEAM fields through a comprehensive training program in 3D design. The program includes mentorship from UC Berkeley students and industry professionals, leading to certification in SOLIDWORKS (CSWA). Post-training, students participate in a 6-month paid design internship, working on real-world projects outsourced by design companies and firms.

SDGs

Outcomes

1. Introduction of low-income youth to the STEAM fields. 2. Providing professional-level 3D design training and hands-on experience. 3. Offering paid internships to enhance real-world job skills. 4. Establishing industry connections for career mentorship and opportunities. 5. Inclusion of UC Berkeley students as mentors, integrating academic resources and support.