// about us
A workshop that belongs
to everyone who makes in it
LightTree started with one borrowed 3D printer and a simple belief: the tools to make things shouldn't be locked behind money, degrees, or a "right" way to start.
// 01 · our story
From a garage to a growing grove
In 2018, a handful of neighbors pooled their tools — one filament printer, a hand-me-down table saw, and a lot of good will — into a rented garage. The rule was simple: anyone who showed up could use them.
Word spread. Members brought machines they no longer needed. Retired engineers started teaching soldering. High schoolers started showing up after school. Within two years we incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, moved into our current shop on Canopy Court, and formalized the thing that had been true all along: this place runs on the people who make here.
We don't sell access to machines. We grow a community of people who make things — and who help each other learn to make them. — From the LightTree charter
// 02 · mission & values
Curiosity is the only prerequisite
Our mission is to make the tools, skills, and community of making accessible to everyone — regardless of income, age, or experience.
Curiosity
We'd rather watch someone take something apart than tell them it's not worth fixing. Every question is a good question here.
Access
Sliding-scale dues, scholarships, and free community programs. Access is the whole point — not a perk we add later.
Craft
We teach safety first, then technique. The goal is work you're proud of, made with care — not just speed.
Community
Knowledge is meant to be shared. Our best teachers are members who learned here themselves last year.
// 03 · impact
What the numbers say
// 04 · the people
Run by makers, for makers
Corey Fields
Founder & Executive Director
Turned a garage full of borrowed tools into a home for 1,200 makers.
June Okafor
Programs Director
Builds the class calendar. Known to break a 3D printer with kindness.
Miguel Santos
Shop Manager & Safety Lead
Runs certifications, fixes machines at 2am, and keeps the sawdust off the laser lens.
Sam Whitfield
Volunteer Coordinator
Matches volunteers to everything from repair cafés to grant writing.
LightTree is governed by a volunteer board of makers, educators, and neighbors. We're a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit — donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law (EIN 00-0000000).
Come make with us
Tours are free and always open to newcomers. There's a workbench with your name on it.