Category: Covid19

Updates about our efforts to produce PPE for medical workers on the frontlines of the Covid-19 pandemic.

  • Member Made: Elliott’s capper/decapper mod

    Member Made: Elliott’s capper/decapper mod

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]The State of Vermont’s division responsible for COVID testing reached out to Generator for help with their capper/decapper machine.

    Our Operations Director Elliott Katz was able to solve their problem with a little 3D modeling, printing, and rubber mold making.

    Want to learn how to use the 3D printers? Sign up for one of our trainings or classes here.

     

    [/vc_column_text][vc_raw_html]JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwc3JjJTNEJTIyaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cueW91dHViZS5jb20lMkZlbWJlZCUyRnVaa3RuVmdNTkYwJTIyJTIwd2lkdGglM0QlMjI1NjAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjIzMTUlMjIlMjBmcmFtZWJvcmRlciUzRCUyMjAlMjIlMjBhbGxvd2Z1bGxzY3JlZW4lM0QlMjJhbGxvd2Z1bGxzY3JlZW4lMjIlM0UlM0MlMkZpZnJhbWUlM0U=[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Is playing pinball the new science class? We think so.

    Is playing pinball the new science class? We think so.

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

    While schools scramble to adapt to remote learning, Generator’s Design Lab program finds creative ways to bring hands-on STEAM skills to students.

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]In late summer, while schools were on standby and waiting to see what might happen with Vermont’s COVID numbers, Generator’s outreach team was busy considering ways we could pivot out programming. Our hope was to keep Generator’s connection to our local and regional youth who are eager for hands-on, experiential educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM).[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”10217″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Unsure how the year would go and how much to invest in hands-on offerings that might quickly be shut down, or might not be possible in the first place, we needed to be prepared to pivot easily.

    How could be obtain hands-on, STEAM initiatives via Google classroom and still create a buzz or influence students we’ve never met? [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”10216″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]The answer: PinBox 3000. The customizable, build-it-yourself, cardboard pinball machine.

    Generator and PinBox 3000 teamed up to bring Generator’s Design Lab to classrooms around Vermont– and in the comfort of students’ own home. [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”10269″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]In early 2015, Pete Talbot and Ben T. Matchstick became Generator Makers-in-Residence (now our Artist in Residence program) in order to further develop and prototype their product, PinBox 3000.  By the end of their 2-month residency their business was launched and the rest is history! Read their story here.[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][image_with_animation image_url=”10270″ alignment=”center” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Bringing this story full circle, Generator is excited to team up with PinBox 3000 and provide students with endless opportunities in creating, designing, prototyping, electrifying and advancing a pinball game of their own design.  [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”Full Width Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]

    Design Lab is one of Generator’s educational and outreach programs inspiring learners of all ages to explore and innovate in the sciences, arts, and in entrepreneurship.

    Our programs are made possible by supports like you!

    You can support Generator by giving a gift today.

    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Reopening begins July 1st!

    Reopening begins July 1st!

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Hello, members!

    We’re excited to share that we’re beginning our reopening process on July 1st!

    Generator is committed to protecting its members, volunteers, and staff throughout the reopening process by following clear guidelines set by the State of Vermont and the CDC, and by going above and beyond with our own measures based on Generator’s unique operational requirements.

    While everything is subject to change, here is an overview of what our projected reopening phases will look like, with more details about Phase 1 below:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”9793″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]All phases will include the following:

    • Masks required
    • Check-in and health screening upon entering
    • 6ft distance required between people
    • Mandatory orientation and VOSHA safety training for all members
    • New membership sign-up process and agreement
    • Reservation of equipment required (more details to follow)
    • No guests
    • No events
    • Members required to clean tools and equipment before and after use
    • No shared kitchen
    • Increased cleaning and sanitation by members, volunteers, and staff

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Phase 1: July 1st

    • Studio Members & Volunteer Members; General Members who are business owners by appointment
    • Hours: 10am – 7pm
    • Capacity limits on each workspace (see above)

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]Some additional notes:

    • Expect our appearance to change. Wherever it is possible, we are moving equipment around to make working while maintaining 6ft of distance possible. For example, we’re spreading out computers in the Learning Lab. Where it’s not possible to move equipment, we are creating acrylic shields to separate people while they’re working.
    • We all have a part to play in keeping Generator safe. There will be a zero-tolerance policy for not following official protocols and procedures outlined in the new training and membership agreement.
    • Volunteers are integral to our safe reopening. We’re increasing the number of volunteers to ensure we have a thorough and consistent check-in process and regular sanitation and cleaning happening throughout our open hours. Volunteers receive discounted membership in exchange for their service! Learn more about volunteering and apply here.

    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_column_text]

    We appreciate your patience and flexibility as we move forward and we will share updates and more information very soon!

    In the meantime, you can always contact us with questions.

    We’re looking forward to seeing you!

    Warmly,

    the Generator team

    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][image_with_animation image_url=”9795″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • “It’s a much more sturdy face shield.”

    “It’s a much more sturdy face shield.”

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]We were surprised and humbled to get a nice shout out from Seven Days’ Eva Sollberger during another Stuck in Vermont video.

    Eva talked to a number of Vermont’s essential workers this week including Kristin Baker, a Nurse Manager in UVM Medical Center’s Emergency Department.

    “I did a story on Generator, who made these face shields…” Eva says, “I don’t know if you’ve come into contact with them. Have you seen them out?”

    “Yes, we just got them!” Kristin replies. “So these new ones that came in… they wipe down every single aspect. It’s a much more sturdy shield. And so far the staff love it. I think it’s also really cool that is was made locally. There’s also that sense of Vermont pride.”

    This is just a teeny part of a longer video capturing the bravery and strength of our frontline workers. Please give it a watch and heed their advice. Thank you for capturing these important stories, Eva![/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/EY3JL73kghc?t=468″][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • 12 intubation boxes go to UVMMC

    12 intubation boxes go to UVMMC

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]

    We went another batch of intubation boxes to UVM Medical Center yesterday.

    Board member and jack-of-all-trades Steve Contact made the delivery.

    Thank you to everyone who’s donated to make our PPE production possible![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][recent_posts style=”default” category=”covid19″ columns=”3″ title_labels=”true” posts_per_page=”3″ post_offset=”1″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • 2,200 face shields!

    2,200 face shields!

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]An update about our PPE effort:

    • As of Friday 4/17, Generator has built and packaged a total of 2,200 face shields. Soon, much larger manufacturers around Vermont will able to build far more face shields per week than our small-yet-powerful “boutique” factory can. We’re proud to have responded so quickly and to continue producing PPE while larger-scale operations ramp up.

    • We are currently fulfilling an order from the State of Vermont for 4,000 face shields. On Friday 4/17  we sent the first batch of 900 shields to the State.

     [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

    • Thanks to generous donations from over 110 individuals over the past few weeks, Generator has donated 45 face shields to smaller organizations including:
      • Addison County Home Hospice Center
      • Anew Place
      • Birth Wife Midwifery
      • Spectrum

    [/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”9213″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/2″][image_with_animation image_url=”9214″ alignment=”” animation=”Fade In” box_shadow=”none” max_width=”100%”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner text_align=”left”][vc_column_inner column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]

    • We’ve built 35 intubation boxes. With the support of a few anonymous donors, Generator was able to donate many of the intubation boxes to Vermont hospitals. Elliott is working on version 2.0 of our intubation box in response to feedback from emergency doctors at UVMMC. The new design is easier for doctors to use and clean, and it accommodates more body sizes and bed sizes.

    • Our production team has grown thanks to collaboration with ECHO, the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain! Caroline Frigon, ECHO Education Coordinator, and Nina Ridhibhinyo, ECHO Education Director, pivoted from their usual work at ECHO to join our production team. We’re working hard to meet demand and we couldn’t do it without these two, or without this kind of community generosity and collaboration.

     

     

    Thank you for your continued support of our PPE production effort![/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][divider line_type=”Small Line” line_thickness=”1″ divider_color=”default” custom_height=”20″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][vc_column_text]

    RECENT POSTS

    [/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line” custom_height=”30″][recent_posts style=”default” category=”covid19″ columns=”3″ posts_per_page=”3″ post_offset=”1″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Stuck in Vermont: Communities Come Together During the Pandemic

    Stuck in Vermont: Communities Come Together During the Pandemic

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Thank you to Eva at Seven Days for putting together this beautiful piece about Vermonters coming together during these challenging times. It’s a must-watch!

    She talks about our PPE effort right up top at :57[/vc_column_text][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UByT3Q7paT4″][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_text_separator title=”RECENT POSTS” title_align=”separator_align_left”][recent_posts style=”default” category=”covid19″ columns=”3″ posts_per_page=”3″ post_offset=”1″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Vermont Edition: In Vermont, Manufacturers Help Supply PPE

    Vermont Edition: In Vermont, Manufacturers Help Supply PPE

    Thank you to Jane Lindholm and Lydia Brown for chatting with Meg about our PPE effort on VPR’s Vermont Edition.

    Listen to the segment to learn about Generator’s effort, as well as others around the state working on PPE including Vermont Glove, Vermont Teddy Bear, and Revision.

    Listen here >>>

  • 450 face shields, 18 intubation boxes, and counting

    450 face shields, 18 intubation boxes, and counting

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    We haven’t updated you in a few days — we’ve been moving so fast!

    As of today, we’ve delivered 450 face shields to UVM Medical Center. We have another 550 in production to meet their initial request for 1,000 face shields.

    We’ve also donated 18 intubation boxes to the following area hospitals:

    • UVM Medical Center (10)
    • Copley Hospital (2)
    • Northeastern Vermont Hospital (2)
    • Central Vermont Medical Center (2)
    • Rutland Regional Medical Center (1)
    • Northwestern Vermont Regional Hospital (1)

    “What’s an intubation box?” you ask.

    The clear plexiglass boxes are placed over patients’ heads while medical workers intubate them, limiting the ability of the virus particles to spread.

    We’re gaining efficiency and removing bottlenecks in our operation every day.

     

    Our production crew’s spirits are high. All of the supportive messages from our community — especially coming from those in the medical field — have helped these guys keep their energy up.

    We’re feeding the crew, but if you want to send treats you’re more than welcome. 🍩

     

    We’ve secured enough PETG to keep printing headbands for the time being thanks to the rigorous search and supply chain management skills of our board member, Michael Metz.

    Coincidentally, these enormous 10lb spools come in our signature orange. 🤷‍♀️

    We can’t believe how many folks responded to our call for Prusas!

    Many others offered to loan us a different 3D printer or to print on their machine at home for us.

    Each additional printer we get online helps speed up the entire operation, so thank you to everyone who’s letting us take care of their precious printers!

    We’ve been blown away by the support we’ve received for this effort, from local politicians reaching out to ask what we need, to artists offering to write a song for anyone who donates $5 or more… it all helps keep this important effort in motion.

    We’ve recognized some of our major supporters on this page. Thank you to everyone who has donated.

    Want to donate? You can do so here:

    [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column centered_text=”true” column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][nectar_btn size=”extra_jumbo” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” url=”https://generatorvt.com/ppe/#DONATE” text=”DONATE”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

  • Calling all Vermont Prusa printers! Generator needs your help.

    Calling all Vermont Prusa printers! Generator needs your help.

    [vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][vc_column_text]Do you own a Prusa 3D printer?

    We need your help!

    With Generator’s current printer capacity, it could take 20 days to meet UVM Medical Center’s demand for 1,000 face shields.

    We need 10 additional printers running 24/7 at Generator in order to provide this critical PPE to frontline medical workers as soon as possible.

    If you:

    • live in northern Vermont
    • own a Prusa i3 MK3S or MK3 in great condition (this is a demanding print)

    We will:

    • pick-it up from your home
    • guarentee its safe operation and return
    • thank you personally in our list of supporters!

     

    If you can help us, please fill out this form.

    Can’t help us? Sure you can! Please share this with your networks.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” disable_element=”yes” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][nectar_blog layout=”std-blog-fullwidth” category=”covid19″ load_in_animation=”none” posts_per_page=”3″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”in_container” full_screen_row_position=”middle” scene_position=”center” text_color=”dark” text_align=”left” overlay_strength=”0.3″][vc_column column_padding=”no-extra-padding” column_padding_position=”all” background_color_opacity=”1″ background_hover_color_opacity=”1″ width=”1/1″ tablet_text_alignment=”default” phone_text_alignment=”default”][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][divider line_type=”No Line”][vc_text_separator title=”RECENT POSTS” title_align=”separator_align_left”][recent_posts style=”default” category=”covid19″ columns=”3″ posts_per_page=”3″ post_offset=”2″][/vc_column][/vc_row]