By Genise Choy, Workforce and Youth Programming Intern
Toy manufacturer Imagination Supply Co. is in the business of making makers. From their new space in Potrero Hill* equipped with a laser cutter and 3D printer, they design and craft DIY kits for kids to build their own playthings, from go karts to miniature dining sets.
They are also hosting two interns this summer through SFMade’s YouthMade program, in partnership with United Way of the Bay Area’s Business Pathways. Along with printing parts and packaging kits, Terri, 17, and Kelly, 19, are learning what it takes to build a business from co-founders Kirti Patel and Diego Fonstad.
Kelly said that interning at a small business provides easy access to “upper level” staff and behind-the-scenes action, which she did not get at her previous internship. Terri agreed, adding that she likes testing new products as they are being developed. “Working doesn’t always have to be boring. It can be fun and exciting!”
Kirti says that they will definitely miss Terri and Kelly when the summer ends as they have helped identify things that Imagination Supply Co. could be doing differently or better. Plus, they all agreed that one of the best aspects of this internship experience has been the relationships they have built with one another, sharing stories and learning together.
Terri and Kelly have been leading workshops at the Children’s Creativity Museum, helping youth experiment with making and modifying toy cars. Makers making makers, you could say.
Imagination Supply Co., http://imaginationsupply.co/
For more information about YouthMade, visit http://sfmade.org/program/youthmade/ or contact Hiring and Workforce Manager Claire Michaels at [email protected].
*Imagination Supply Co. used to be located in the basement of fellow SFMade member McRoskey Mattress! They found their new space with the help of SFMade’s Places to Make Program Agent
Noah Snyder. For more information about Places to Make, visit http://sfmade.org/program/industrial-real-estate/.