Tag Archives: Design

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.

Intro to FreeCAD

Discover the world of parametric 3D design with FreeCAD, a free and open-source modeling tool for engineers, designers, and makers.

In this one-hour introductory session, you’ll learn the basics of navigating FreeCAD’s interface, creating and modifying 3D parts, and understanding how parametric design enables easy revisions and precision modeling.

Whether you’re preparing a part for 3D printing, designing mechanical components, or exploring digital design tools, this session will give you a solid starting point for your next project.

No prior experience required — just bring your curiosity and laptop (optional).

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.

Subscribe to our Newsletter to receive updates and information on happenings in our 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

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.

Students Elevate Their Tech Game

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Thank you to Stephanie Gonzales, a freelance writer for Lewis Palmer School District 38 (D38), for her article on Monumental Impact’s Engineering Firm Experiences offered to D38 students through a collaborative partnership with D38. Under the Engineering Firm Experience the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) program is a competitive “sports of the mind” where students have “Go to Market” industry-like experiences as they prepare to compete, both in their robot’s capabilities and their business engineering portfolio.

Ready to enable student experiences

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Core to our mission is to enable student experiences. We now have a space, but how does that impact enabling student experiences, especially in a time of COVID? Well, it impacts our ability to have a home base to enable different types of student experiences even with COVID. We will use our space for: small team competition activities; training before a rotation of desktop equipment to a student’s home and; internships with home-based businesses.

What type of student experiences? With two of our industry areas of technology and engineering we are currently focused on enabling student experiences with fabrication and design capabilities. These two areas can be enabled with some out of the box thinking even with the restrictions of COVID.

For fabrication experiences we will start with 3D Printing and CNC router equipment (examples shown). Supplies include plastic filament, aluminum, lexan, router bits, Dewalt 611 router for these types of experiences.

The design area covers many different disciplines of engineering and graphics, even programming and entrepreneurial marketing. To provide design experiences you need high-end graphics PCs with software licenses for the discipline of interest such as mechanical, electrical, programming and graphics. By providing the equipment and supplies needed for these experiences, students interested in these areas are enabled to explore these career pathways.

We look forward to enabling students interested in learning design-to-fabrication techniques with desktop tools and supplies even with COVID. We also look forward to enabling small team activities for the Bearbotics that is still competing this season during COVID.

With these types of student experiences available to students interested in these fields, we will have enabled them in their journey even during COVID. With a will there’s a way to enable. We just need to think outside of the box. Will you help us enable these student experiences?


Monument nonprofit ‘impacts’ technology, engineering and entrepreneurship for local youth

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Thank you to Benn Farrell, a freelance writer for the Gazette, for his article in The Tribune on Monumental Impact as we were finding our footing in 2020 after COVID restrictions were put in place. We started our nonprofit one month before COVID and yet we still had six interns that first summer that worked remotely to help form and shape our internship opportunities for students interested in technology, engineering and entrepreneurship.