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Kicking Off 2026 by Looking Back at a Monumental 2025

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Kicking Off 2026 by Looking Back at a Monumental 2025

Last week was the first full week of 2026, and we hope everyone had a great holiday season — time to rest, reconnect, and maybe even tinker a little. As we settled back into the new year, we found ourselves pausing to reflect.

2025 was such a Monumental year for us that it felt worth capturing in a way that went beyond a few photos or social posts. So we created a short recap video to highlight the growth, momentum, and community that shaped the year at Monumental Impact.

🎬 Our 2025 Recap Video

The video follows the arc of our year — from growth and transition to community, impact, and what comes next.

Expanded Access & Lifelong Learning

One of the biggest shifts in 2025 was expanding who our makerspace serves. We broadened access to include high school students, college-age learners, and adults of all ages, creating more opportunities for people to explore, build, and learn — whether they’re just getting started or continuing a lifelong passion.

This focus on lifelong learning continues to shape how we design programs, open hours, and community engagement.

2025 was a year of growth, transition, and community at Monumental Impact.

A New Space, A Bigger Vision

The move set the foundation for everything that followed.

2025 also marked a major milestone: moving into a new space. That move wasn’t just about square footage — it allowed us to grow what’s possible.

Moving into a new space in 2025 allowed us to expand programs, tools, and opportunities for our community.

Tools That Matter

With the space came the ability to invest in tools that support real learning and real outcomes. Throughout the year, our community put to work:

  • 3D printers
  • Laser cutting and engraving
  • CNC machining
  • Electronics, testing, and robotics

But as always, the tools are only part of the story — it’s what people build, learn, and problem-solve together that matters most.

A Growing Community

In 2025, we transitioned fully into a membership-based community makerspace, welcoming more than 40 makers, mentors, and volunteers by the end of 2025.

Students, adults, and professionals working side-by-side — learning together, teaching each other, and supporting projects that ranged from robotics and fabrication to entrepreneurship and career exploration to lifelong learning. This sense of shared ownership and collaboration continues to be one of our strongest assets.

From Ideas to Impact

Our focus on entrepreneurship and career readiness connects making to meaningful outcomes and future opportunities.

A key focus throughout the year was connecting making to meaningful outcomes. Through entrepreneurship and career-readiness efforts, participants gained hands-on experience that builds confidence, skills, and pathways forward.

We were honored to be recognized as an Enterprise Zone Contribution Project, acknowledging the role this work plays in workforce development and local economic impact.

Robotics, Competition, and Milestones

Robotics remained a major part of our community in 2025:

  • Our FIRST Tech Challenge team qualified for State competition
  • Gobble Squabble celebrated its fifth year, bringing together FTC and combat robotics with more than 30 robots in action

These events reflect not just competition, but perseverance, teamwork, and long-term community investment.

Robotics remained a cornerstone of our community, with state-level competition and the fifth year of Gobble Squabble bringing people together.

Honest Reflections & Looking Ahead to 2026

We’re proud of what 2025 brought — and we’re also realistic.

We still have a long way to go toward becoming a fully sustainable program that can provide even greater access, stability, and impact for our community. Building that sustainability takes time, partnership, and continued support.

As we look ahead to 2026, we’re excited to:

  • Deepen our entrepreneurship and career-readiness programs
  • Strengthen partnerships and community connections
  • Welcome new members, mentors, and supporters
  • Continue learning, iterating, and building together

Many of you have already been part of this journey — and we hope even more of you will join us in the year ahead.

Thank you for being part of a Monumental 2025.
Here’s to building what comes next — together.

Maker Spotlight: Mike Hinkle – A Lifetime of Creativity and Curiosity

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Maker Spotlight: Mike Hinkle – A Lifetime of Creativity and Curiosity

Our community shines because of makers like Mike Hinkle — a mentor and lifelong learner whose creativity and curiosity continue to spark innovation at Monumental Impact.

Mike recently wrapped up an incredibly busy build cycle, preparing robots across three combat robotics weight classes — Beetleweight, Plastic Antweight, and Fairyweight — along with a robot for the RIVAL Robotics League. His workshop has been alive with the hum of tools, the buzz of testing, and the spark of innovation as he balances design, fabrication, and mentorship.

Since August, Mike has been guiding four new combat roboticists through our Combat Robotics Starter Program, helping them bring their custom robot designs to life. Under his mentorship, these students have learned how to design, build, and test their creations — skills they’ll put to the test when they compete at our 5th Annual MITEE Gobble Squabble on Saturday, November 22nd at UCCS.

Mike also mentors our FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Team 19541 – the Bionic Sharks, teaching mechanical fundamentals, game strategy, and build planning. He brings a thoughtful balance of experience and encouragement, helping students grow their technical skills while fostering teamwork and creativity.

Beyond the makerspace, Mike extends his love for discovery to the broader community through Maker Moments: Creativity & Curiosity, a hands-on session he leads at Silver Key’s Tri-Lakes Activity Center. Through these sessions, he helps people of all ages reconnect with the joy of making — reminding us that creativity is one of life’s most joyful experiences. It’s something we can discover, rediscover, and celebrate throughout our lives.

Mike’s story as a maker stretches back many years, including his early work with Techno Chaos, where he helped families and students explore technology and creativity together. You can learn more about his journey at techno-chaos.com/about-us/mike-hinkle.

Mike embodies the spirit of Monumental Impact: lifelong learning, mentorship, and the power of creativity to connect people. Whether guiding a student team, mentoring new roboticists, or leading community workshops, he reminds us that making isn’t just about the final product — it’s about the curiosity, collaboration, and confidence we gain along the way.

Final touches! Mike prepares his RIVAL Robotics League bot at the Colorado School of Mines scrimmage.
Testing in progress — Mike evaluates his RIVAL Robotics League bot unloading DOOMSDAY game elements during a scrimmage at the Colorado School of Mines.
Mike and members of the Combat Robotics Club meet to discuss build techniques and robot design strategies in preparation for upcoming competitions.
Mike leads a discussion with members of FTC Team 19541 – the Bionic Sharks – reviewing robot design concepts and game strategy during a build session at Monumental Impact.
Hands-on learning in action! Mike works alongside the Bionic Sharks team as they test drive components and troubleshoot mechanisms.
Having fun talking robots with the Bionic Sharks team.
Mike demonstrates live 3D printing during a Maker Moments: 3D Creations & Curiosity session at Silver Key’s Tri-Lakes Activity Center, inspiring others to explore creativity at any age.
Mike readies his Plastic Antweight bot, “Pain in the Bot,” before a match — a great example of precision design and the excitement of combat robotics.
In the arena — Mike competes with his Plastic Antweight bot at the Golden Tech Tussle, held at the Colorado School of Mines’ Labriola Makerspace & Innovation Space.
A lifetime of creativity and curiosity — Mike stands proudly with his lineup of combat robots, embodying the joy and lifelong learning that drive his work.

Volunteer for the 5th Annual Gobble Squabble!

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🦃 Volunteer for the 5th Annual Gobble Squabble!

What: The MITEE Gobble Squabble
When: Saturday, November 22nd, 2025
Where: Berger Hall, UCCS
Hosted by: Monumental Impact & University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS)

Ready to Volunteer? Scan or Click
Volunteer Now

If you are having problems volunteering through the link above, you can also volunteer through the steps provided in the following link.

The Gobble Squabble returns for its 5th year — a day that celebrates innovation, competition, and community collaboration! This event brings together makers, students, and enthusiasts for three exciting experiences under one roof:

  • FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Scrimmage – Student robotics teams test and refine their designs before the competition season.
  • Combat Robotics: “Robot Chaos” – Builders battle it out with custom combat robots.
  • Robotics & Technology EXPO (*NEW)– Exhibits from UCCS clubs and area organizations showcasing technology, engineering and robotics projects.

Everything is powered by volunteers, and we’d love to have you on the team! No worries if this is your first time at such an event. Let us know and we will help you get up to speed!

🛠️ Event-Wide Volunteer Roles

A few key positions help keep everything running across all Gobble Squabble programs:

  • Volunteer Check-In – Greet and register volunteers.
  • Pit Administration / Team Check-In – Welcome teams and get them settled.
  • Emcee – Keep the crowd engaged and informed.
  • Event Photographer & Media – Capture memorable moments throughout the day. If not able to do the full day, we have split this with two volunteers into a morning and afternoon.
  • Safety Attendant – Oversee pit and competition safety, especially with attendees wanting to get close to the action or into the pit area.
  • Accommodations Coordinator – help with food area, accessibility and quiet spaces.
  • Assign Me As Needed – Flexible volunteers ready to help wherever needed most!
  • Field Setup / Takedown Crew – Assemble and / or disassemble the FTC and Combat Robotics fields. [Field setup is scheduled to occur between 4pm to 6pm on Friday.]
  • Load-In / Load-Out Crew – Transport and get field / team components into Berger Hall in the morning and out of Berger Hall in the late afternoon. Volunteers can ask to help either in the morning or afternoon.

🤖 FTC Scrimmage Volunteer Opportunities

Support high school / middle school student robotics teams as they prepare for competition season!
Roles include:

Roles primarily in the morning:

  • Mock Judging Coordinator & Judges – Conduct practice interviews to prepare students for judging on their presentation and portfolio. [Mock Judging Panels are scheduled to occur between 8:30am to 10:30.]
  • Inspectors – Verify robot safety and compliance for teams to participate in the scrimmage matches. [Inspectors are typically active between 8am to 11am.]
  • Control System Advisor / FIRST Technical Advisor – help teams with their robot communications on and off the field.

Roles that start around 10:30am after inspections and mock judging are completed:

  • Referees & Scorekeepers – Learn the FTC DECODE game and play a crucial role in the match play action for the scrimmage. [Referees & Scorekeepers are typically active between 10:30am to 3pm.]
  • Game Announcer – Keep the crowd engaged and informed.
  • Lead Queuer / Queuers – Keep scrimmage matches on schedule and teams moving smoothly.
  • Field Resetter / Field Supervisor – Reset and maintain match fields.

🎓 Training is provided by FIRST for FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) — no experience needed! Some roles are half-day.
Sign up through the QR code on this page or click the QR code. For question reach out to enable@monumentalimpact.org.

⚙️ Combat Robotics: “Robot Chaos” Volunteer Opportunities

Help run the thrilling Robot Chaos combat robotics competition — where custom-built bots face off in the arena!

  • Field / Match Supervisor – Manage match flow and arena safety. Also does the inspections of robots.
  • Judges – Score matches and ensure fair play.
  • Scorekeeper – Track match results using Challonge software.
  • Game Announcer – Provide live commentary during matches.

This year’s focus will feature Plastic Antweight and Fairyweight divisions — perfect for new and experienced builders alike of all ages.

🎨 Robotics & Technology EXPO – Exhibitor & Volunteer Opportunities

In addition to the robotics action, Gobble Squabble will feature an EXPO highlighting other robotics & technology projects from UCCS clubs and community organizations. We’re looking for volunteers to help with:

  • Expo Setup & Logistics – Assist exhibitors with setup and table placement.
  • Expo Coordination – Welcome exhibitors and help manage attendee flow.

If your organization or club would like to host an exhibit, please contact enable@monumentalimpact.org for participation details.

💡 Be Part of the Action

The Gobble Squabble is a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community innovation — and it couldn’t happen without volunteers like you!

📩 Interested in volunteering or exhibiting?
Email enable@monumentalimpact.org or sign up online through
FIRSTinspires.org → Event Volunteering → Gobble Squabble FTC Scrimmage

OR Scan the QR Code:
Volunteer Now

Your time, skills, and enthusiasm make this annual event possible. Join us to inspire the next generation of makers and innovators!

If you know others that would like to connect with the robotics & technology community at the MITEE Gobble Squabble, please feel free to share our flyer or our website.

🛠️ Maker Spotlight: Lukas – Designing, Prototyping, and Bringing Products to Life

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🛠️ Maker Spotlight: Lukas – Designing, Prototyping, and Bringing Products to Life

This fall, Lukas joined Monumental Impact as an intern on our Product Development & Delivery (PDD) Team, diving deep into the process of taking a design from concept to creation.

A senior in high school, Lukas is using this internship to explore his next steps — discovering how his interests in technology, design, and creativity might shape his future path.

He first connected with Monumental Impact through a Fusion 360 design class we offered in collaboration with the Pikes Peak Library District (PPLD) at their Library 21C makerspace. His curiosity, creative mindset, and growing passion for digital design stood out immediately — and he’s continued to build on that momentum ever since.

As part of his internship, Lukas is developing and refining product prototypes that will be featured in Monumental Impact’s new Etsy store this holiday season. His work includes designing with various CAD tools such as Fusion 360, TinkerCAD, and Blender, testing prototypes with mentors and community members, and preparing final samples for production using tools like 3D printers, CNC machines, and laser engravers.

This Saturday, October 25th, Lukas had the opportunity to gather community feedback on his product design during a Product Feedback Session held at Silver Key’s Thrift Store located in Palmer Lake. Thank you to their patrons for taking the time to share thoughtful insights and ideas with Lukas — helping him refine his design before moving forward with final production.

He’s also contributing to the marketing and fulfillment side, learning how to turn creative designs into real-world products that reach customers. Through this process, Lukas is gaining valuable experience in design thinking, iterative development, and entrepreneurship.

Lukas brings a strong “no job too small” attitude and a thoughtful approach to problem-solving. He’s learning not just how to make — but how to deliver: how to take an idea, design it, produce it, and connect it with people.

We’re proud to see Lukas growing his skills and contributing to our community of makers, mentors, and innovators. His work represents the creative energy that fuels Monumental Impact’s mission: connecting students, entrepreneurs, and professionals through hands-on experience and real-world projects.

Interested in Interning with Monumental Impact?

We’re always looking for high school and college students who want to explore digital design to fabrication, product development, or delivering services and products to real customers.

With the making and gift giving season in full swing, now’s a great time to get involved — whether you’re interested in design, marketing, engineering, or entrepreneurship.

👉 Learn more or apply to join our internship program.

About Monumental Impact

Monumental Impact is a registered 501(c)(3) Colorado nonprofit serving high school students through adults as a community makerspace.  Monumental Impact is also referred to as MITEE, (Monumental Impact for Technology, Engineering and Entrepreneurship) connecting youth and community members with career pathways in technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship. We provide programs, equipment, mentorship, workspace, and real-world opportunities that empower people to explore, create, and compete.

Anyone interested in learning more about becoming a part of and engaging in Monumental Impact’s community can visit a recent article, Engaging in the Monumental Impact Community.

MONUMENTAL IMPACT RECEIVES GRANT FROM BLACK HILLS ENERGY

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PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MONUMENTAL IMPACT RECEIVES GRANT FROM BLACK HILLS ENERGY

Money to fund a variety of ongoing programs.

Monument, CO — October 8, 2025 —
Monumental Impact has announced the awarding of a $1,750.00 USD grant from Black Hills Energy.  The funds will be used for a variety of popular programs that members take part in as they build teams to tackle various challenges in the areas of science, technology and engineering. These programs include competition teams, work-based learning, entrepreneurship, makerspace and community services. 

Monumental Impact is a nonprofit that connects youth and community members with career pathways in technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship. We provide programs, equipment, mentorship, workspace, and real-world opportunities that empower people to explore, create, and compete.

“What sets us apart is that we don’t simulate the workplace—we are the workplace.” said Jeanette Breton, Executive Director of Monumental Impact.

Membership in Monumental Impact includes more than students and mentors. Adult professional makers, current entrepreneurs and retired industry experts are also active MITEE members. They engage shoulder-to-shoulder with learners, sharing real-world insights, sparking creativity, and inspiring next-gen innovators.

“Being involved in community programs like Monumental Impact and helping the next generation of innovators and leaders emerge is part of Black Hills Energy’s mission,” said, Tom Henley, Senior Manager of Public Affairs at Black Hills Energy. 

About Black Hills Energy

Black Hills Energy, a subsidiary of Black Hills Corp, has a long history supplying gas and electric utilities to 1.35 million customers in eight states including Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming.

Visit www.blackhillsenergy.com for more information.

 About Monumental Impact

Monumental Impact is a registered 501(c)(3) Colorado nonprofit serving high school students through adults as a community makerspace.  Monumental Impact is also referred to as MITEE, (Monumental Impact for Technology, Engineering and Entrepreneurship) connecting youth and community members with career pathways in technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship. We provide programs, equipment, mentorship, workspace, and real-world opportunities that empower people to explore, create, and compete.

Anyone interested in learning more about becoming a part of Monumental Impact can visit www.monumentalimpact.org

Media Contacts

Monumental Impact                                                 Black Hills Energy

Name: Jeanette Breton                                               Name: Tom Henley
Title: Executive Director                                           Title: Senior Manager of Public Affairs
Email: Jeanette@monumentalimpact.org                 Email: Tom.Henley@blackhillsenergy.com
Phone: 719-387-7414                                                Phone: 720-333-1844
Website: www.monumentalimpact.org                    Website: www.blackhillsenergy.com

Engaging in the Monumental Impact Community

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Engaging in the Monumental Impact Community

At Monumental Impact, we believe in empowering individuals to make, create, and connect through hands-on experiences that build confidence, careers, and community.
Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, mentor, or lifelong maker, there’s a place for you in our growing ecosystem of creators, innovators, and collaborators.

🔹 Join a Member Program

Our Member Programs are the heart of how people engage at Monumental Impact. Each program connects learning, creativity, and community impact in a different way:

  • Entrepreneurship — Turn your ideas into real products or ventures. Use our makerspace to prototype, batch-produce, and test your creations, with access to community feedback and guidance from mentors and interns.
  • Competition Programs — Participate in team-based and/or individual robotics, engineering, or innovation challenges. Our mentors and volunteers support you with equipment, build techniques, teamwork, and safety.
  • Personal Projects — Use our workspace, tools, and training to explore your interests, build new skills, and bring your ideas to life.

🔹 Support as a Mentor, Volunteer, or Intern

You don’t have to be building something to make an impact — you can help others build their confidence and skills.

  • Mentors share their professional experience to guide teams, students, and entrepreneurs.
  • Volunteers lend their time during workshops, competitions, or community events.
  • Interns contribute through meaningful projects that strengthen our programs and community connections.

Each role helps expand the reach and sustainability of our mission.

🔹 Engage Through Leadership or Coordination

Our programs thrive through dedicated community members who help connect people and opportunities.

  • Community Member Liaison volunteers welcome new members and guide them toward the best way to engage.
  • Program Leads and Coaches support Competition and Entrepreneurship initiatives.
  • Marketing & Communications contributors help share our stories and inspire others to get involved.

If you’re looking to take a leadership role, we’ll help you find the right fit.

🔹 Access the Makerspace

Our community makerspace in Palmer Lake is open to members of all ages and experience levels of high school students, college students, adults and seniors. Whether you’re tinkering, fabricating, or just exploring your creativity, you’ll find equipment, training, and a supportive network of peers and mentors.
You can also take part in themed workshops — from Artistic 3D Printing and Mechanical Puzzle Design to Cosplay & Prop Fabrication — to expand your skills and meet others who love to make.

🔹 Partner and Collaborate

We’re actively seeking industry partners who want to help shape the next generation of creators, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

By partnering with Monumental Impact, businesses can:

  • Provide real-world context for students and adult members through project-based challenges, guest talks, and facility tours.
  • Share industry insights that inspire entrepreneurship and inform career pathways.
  • Collaborate on career readiness experiences that connect hands-on making with practical workplace skills.
  • Engage with our community makerspace to explore innovation, prototyping, and local talent development.

We also work closely with industry, Tri-Lakes Chamber, Pikes Peak Business & Education Alliance (PPBEA), colleges, schools and economic development partners to align these efforts and strengthen our region’s innovation ecosystem.
Parents, educators, and professionals all play a part in creating opportunities for our members to learn, build, and grow.

🌟 Why It Matters

Every connection strengthens our mission — to provide the resources, mentorship, and space needed to turn curiosity into capability.
When you engage with Monumental Impact, you’re not just joining a makerspace — you’re helping build a future-ready community where creativity and collaboration lead to real-world confidence.

Ready to Get Involved and Start Your Journey Today? 👉

Or email enable@monumentalimpact.org.

Monumental Impact Designated as an Enterprise Zone Contribution Project to Expand Entrepreneurship and Career Readiness in the Tri-Lakes Region

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Monumental Impact Designated as an Enterprise Zone Contribution Project to Expand Entrepreneurship and Career Readiness in the Tri-Lakes Region

Palmer Lake, CO — Monumental Impact, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering high school students, college students, and adults in technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship, has been officially approved as an Enterprise Zone Contribution Project in El Paso County.

This designation recognizes Monumental Impact’s role in driving regional workforce and business development through its Entrepreneurship and Career Readiness Programs — programs that equip participants with hands-on experience, mentorship, and real-world problem-solving skills in a collaborative makerspace environment.

“Our community makerspace is where innovation happens,” said Jeanette Breton, Executive Director of Monumental Impact. “It’s a place where students, professionals, and entrepreneurs come together to design, prototype, and launch ideas that strengthen our local economy and create new opportunities.”

Through these programs, participants gain access to advanced fabrication tools — including 3D printers, CNC machines, and laser engravers — as well as professional mentors and business incubation support. Monumental Impact’s hands-on learning model not only builds technical and entrepreneurial capacity but also fosters self-confidence, collaboration, and life-long learning.

As an approved Enterprise Zone Contribution Project, individuals and businesses who contribute to Monumental Impact may receive Colorado state income tax credits for qualifying donations. These contributions directly support the nonprofit’s mission to expand career-connected learning, small business incubation, and innovation pathways within the Tri-Lakes Enterprise Zone.

“Being part of the Enterprise Zone program allows our donors to multiply their impact,” Breton added. “Every contribution fuels opportunities for the next generation of makers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.”

🗣️ Community Voices on Monumental Impact’s Enterprise Zone Designation

Town of Palmer Lake

“Monumental Impact’s makerspace and mentorship programs prepare youth and adults for career pathways and serve as a launchpad for new and growing businesses in our region.”

Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce

“A unique and powerful contributor to our economic ecosystem, Monumental Impact is preparing the next generation of innovators and small business owners.”

Pikes Peak Business & Education Alliance (PPBEA)

“Monumental Impact’s makerspace creates a dynamic hub where learners engage directly with industry professionals and community volunteers.”

To learn more about the Enterprise Zone program and how to make a qualifying contribution, visit:
🔗 https://monumentalimpact.org/monumental-impact-approved-as-an-enterprise-zone-contribution-project/

To contact us you can email enable@monumentalimpact.org or call us at 719-387-7414.

COMP2025: Perspectives on Manufacturing, Workforce, and Global Growth

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COMP2025: Perspectives on Manufacturing, Workforce, and Global Growth

At the Colorado Manufacturing Partners 2025 Expo (COMP2025), industry leaders came together for an insightful panel on the future of manufacturing, workforce development, and global competitiveness. The discussion brought perspectives from global trade, workforce strategy, contract manufacturing, consumer-facing products, and large-scale operations.

Here are the highlights:

Colorado in the Global Economy – Karen Gerwitz, World Trade Center Denver

Karen set the stage with a macro perspective: Colorado’s economy ($553B GDP) ranks among the top 30 worldwide, comparable to Austria and Singapore. Despite this, Colorado ranks only 35th in exports of goods and 34th in imports, showing there’s untapped potential.

Opportunities ahead include positioning Colorado as:

  • A centralized transportation hub for North America.
  • A quantum innovation and R&D hub leveraging national labs.
  • A global commerce hub beyond tourism and lifestyle branding.

Yet, uncertainty from tariffs, supply chain duplication, and workforce shortages are dampening growth. Her message was clear: Colorado can—and should—think globally, not just locally.

Workforce: The Biggest Challenge – Traci Marques, Pikes Peak Workforce Center

Traci brought the focus down to people. The top three challenges for manufacturers? Talent, talent, and talent.

Key points included:

  • Too many postings require unnecessary bachelor’s degrees—companies must shift toward skills-based hiring.
  • Locally, there are 733 open manufacturing positions (as of Aug. 2025).
  • The Workforce Center supports employers through job description reviews, job fairs, and Employee Development Funds for reskilling staff.

She emphasized the importance of early talent pipelines, starting as early as middle school, and stronger integration of military transitions. Her call to businesses: share your required certifications, skills, and career pathways so workforce leaders can align the supply with your demand.

A memorable phrase she used to describe career pathways was:

“Stackable, rackable, and trackable.”

That means building entry-level opportunities where employees can stack new skills, rack them into logical career progressions, and track their growth through certifications and measurable achievements.

“When you look at talent, you need to start manufacturing your own homegrown talent.” – Traci Marques

Resilience and the Customer Treadmill – Grady Cope, Reata Engineering

Grady offered a candid view from contract manufacturing: the economy is uneven—some sectors are booming (defense), while others slow (medical equipment after COVID stockpiling).

His lessons learned:

  • Treat business like a treadmill—you can’t step off customer development without consequences.
  • Don’t stop looking for new customers during good times.
  • In downturns, survival comes down to resilience, persistence, and putting customer service first.

As Grady put it: “When everything’s going good, all vendors look the same. When times get tough, that’s when the true partners show their colors.”

Balancing Costs and Opportunities – Jackie Sopko, Burro

Jackie spoke from a consumer-facing perspective. Her company imports raw materials, making them vulnerable to tariffs and fluctuating shipping costs. Pricing stability has been a constant challenge.

On the opportunity side, demand is growing thanks to the “Make America Healthy” movement, which has boosted interest in Burro’s personal water filtration systems. To stay competitive, they’ve leaned into AI tools for customer service and market strategy.

Her focus: balancing cost structure with long-term growth while maintaining customer trust.

Leadership, Accountability, and Culture – Dan Grady, Hercules Industries

Dan closed the panel with a leadership perspective. What keeps him up at night? Not tariffs or logistics—but leadership and accountability.

He stressed that:

  • Culture is more powerful than strategy: “Culture eats strategy for lunch.”
  • Retention isn’t about foosball tables or free lunches; it’s about meaningful work and strong leadership.
  • Leaders must model accountability—even saying “I screwed up” can strengthen trust.

His bottom line: Employees stay when they feel valued, productive, and proud of what they do.

Takeaways

Across perspectives, a few common themes emerged:

  1. Global Opportunity – Colorado has the scale to compete globally, but needs stronger export performance.
  2. Workforce Crisis – Talent pipelines, skills-based hiring, and culture are key to long-term success.
  3. Resilience Matters – Customer service and adaptability define which companies endure downturns.
  4. Tech as a Lever – AI and automation are reshaping even small manufacturers’ ability to compete.

The COMP2025 panel underscored that while challenges are real, the future of manufacturing in Colorado is one of opportunity—if companies are willing to adapt, lead with accountability, and think beyond borders.

Monumental Impact’s Role

At Monumental Impact, we see these insights as a call to action. Our mission is to enable local entrepreneurs and innovators to bring their product ideas to life by providing access to prototyping equipment, technical mentoring, and a supportive community of peers.

We want to empower entrepreneurial makers like Gino DePolo—who brings unique creative products to life (read his story)—as well as entrepreneurs aiming to take their products toward eventual batch production.

We welcome others to get involved and join us in our mission of building opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and community growth in the Pikes Peak region.

Personal Connections and Thanks

A special thank you to Ken Rayment and Ben Helmreich of Better Process for taking time to indulge me in a conversation about my own maker project — a LEGO sorter. Conversations like these capture the spirit of COMP2025: sharing ideas, solving problems, and connecting across industries.

We also extend gratitude to Doug Rhoda (LinkedIn) for his keynote insights on mentoring, internships, and company culture — and to Christian Atkins, one of the first interns with Doug’s team and who is now a full-time employee with them at Vectis Automation. Their story illustrates the power of cultivating talent and investing in people.

Finally, a big thank you to Batina Aloisi and her team for organizing COMP2025. Their work in bringing together manufacturers, economic development, and community leaders made these conversations — and the connections that will follow — possible.

Monumental Impact to Attend COMP2025 — Exploring Local Manufacturing to Empower Future Innovators

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Monumental Impact to Attend COMP2025 — Exploring Local Manufacturing to Empower Future Innovators

Palmer Lake, CO – September 29, 2025 – Monumental Impact is excited to announce our attendance at the inaugural COMP2025 – Colorado Manufacturing Partners Expo, taking place Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Colorado Springs. Organized by Batina Aloisi, this premier event will gather manufacturers, suppliers, and industry leaders from across Colorado for a full day of connection and collaboration.

Building Stronger Ties Between Makers and Manufacturers

While we won’t have a booth at the event, members of the Monumental Impact team will be on-site to visit manufacturers, build relationships, and explore local capabilities that could benefit our growing community of students and entrepreneurial members.

Our goal? To better understand what Colorado-based manufacturers and suppliers offer — and how those services and capabilities can support student innovation, community projects, and entrepreneurship programs based out of Monumental Impact.

Discovering Collaboration Opportunities Through Programs

Monumental Impact’s internship and entrepreneurship programs give high school and college students hands-on experience in real-world environments. At COMP2025, we look forward to learning how our community members might contribute to the local manufacturing ecosystem — and how we can bring real value to companies through:

  • CAD design and prototyping support
  • Light fabrication and 3D printing
  • Content creation and digital services
  • Project-based collaboration and documentation

We’re excited to meet companies interested in tapping into young talent and community-driven innovation. Even small projects can make a big impact!

Join the Conversation at COMP2025

If you’re attending COMP2025, we’d love to connect — whether in a breakout session, at your booth, or simply while walking the floor. Our team is eager to hear about your work, share what we do at Monumental Impact, and explore how we can support each other’s missions.

We believe in building partnerships that fuel creativity, foster hands-on experiences, and strengthen the future of local manufacturing.

📍 Event Details:

  • Event: COMP2025 – Colorado Manufacturing Partners Expo
  • Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025
  • Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, Colorado Springs
  • Website: comfgpartners.com

Let’s connect, collaborate, and make something monumental — together.

Crafting the Ultimate Halloween Look: Join Gino DePolo’s Design Kickoff

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Crafting the Ultimate Halloween Look: Join Gino DePolo’s Design Kickoff

This Thursday, September 18th from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, Monumental Impact is proud to launch its first Maker Spotlight — a new series designed to showcase inspiring creators and ignite hands-on learning in our community.

Leading this inaugural session is Gino DePolo, a maker,  cosplayer, and costume artist whose work transforms imagination into reality. From detailed Wolverine armor to glowing Iron Doom suits and mystic Moon Knight robes, Gino creates high-impact, cinematic looks — and shares with thousands across YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. He is offering this Kickoff and a Workshop Series for others to explore digital design, fabrication and cosplay craftsmanship together in our community makerspace.

This week’s kickoff session is not just about showing off. It’s about sharing tips, tricks, and techniques — and collaborating with participants to shape a workshop series that will run on Thursdays from September through October. Whether you’re into cosplay, digital design, or just curious about building something awesome for Halloween, this is the place to start with an expert craftsman.

Wolverine build featuring a 3D-printed metallic finished claws by Gino DePolo.

🔧 What to Expect This Thursday

Iron Doom armor build featuring a 3D-printed core and metallic finishing by Gino DePolo.
  • Meet Gino DePolo, see his cosplay creations up close, and learn how he builds them
  • Explore costume-making techniques including design, fabrication, painting, and finishing
  • Share your ideas to help shape the upcoming Thursday workshop series
  • Ask questions, get inspired, and connect with like-minded makers

This is a hands-on, collaborative, and idea-filled session to kick off our fall creative member series — and this Thursday’s Kickoff is open to guests and members alike.

🎭 Gino DePolo’s Creative Builds

Gino’s work merges design, tech, and artistry to bring beloved characters to life:

  • Wolverine – Battle-worn armor with realistic claw integration
  • Iron Doom – Custom chestplate with glowing core and metallic finish
  • Moon Knight – Textured robes, lighting elements, and mystic detailing
  • U.S. Agent – Bold design, finished surfaces, and screen-worthy build quality

These creations don’t just look great — they showcase the kind of skills and techniques Gino will share in future workshops.

Moon Knight cosplay featuring layered fabric work and lighting elements, made by Gino.

📍 Maker Spotlight Event Details

🗓 Date: Thursday, September 18  
🕔 Time: 5:00 – 7:00 PM
📌 Location: Monumental Impact, 866 Highway 105, Palmer Lake
👥 Open to: Guests and Maker Members

Whether you’re dreaming of your next cosplay or just looking to explore the world of creative making, this kickoff session is your entry point. Help shape what’s coming next — and discover what you can build, together with us.

🌐 Follow Gino’s Work

Screen-worthy U.S. Agent costume designed and built by Gino DePolo.

🏛️ About Monumental Impact

Monumental Impact is a membership-based makerspace and community empowering creators, students, and entrepreneurs to explore, create, and compete.

We offer Maker Memberships for adults and Student Memberships for high school and college students, providing access to tools, space, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities.

Whether you’re launching a business, developing technical skills, having creative fun or competing in programs like Combat Robotics or FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), you’ll find support and inspiration here. Join our growing community and make something Monumental.