Hen Hud Senior Earns "Best in Class" Award at World Maker Fair

For Kyle Szendro, life presents a constant source of puzzles and problems in need of solutions. That’s why the Hendrick Hudson senior is so drawn to the field of engineering, and it is why he built his own 3-D printer, an accomplishment that recently earned a “Best in Class” award at World Maker Faire NYC.

Held at New York’s Hall of Science in Queens, N.Y., Maker Faire celebrates “makers” – individuals who create, invent, innovate and share. The growing Maker movement has a forward-thinking, technological and engineering bent, although it also encompasses crafts, performance and art. Kyle’s 3-D printer was recognized among a field of entries from established companies and startup firms.

Kyle began building his printer last spring, and in a fascinating technological twist, many of the parts were created using a different 3-D printer. He said his interest in 3-D printing grew out of his Project Lead the Way (PLTW) engineering classes at Hendrick Hudson High School. The PLTW program, which is in keeping with the school district’s emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math, comprises a four-year sequence of courses that introduce students to the fields of engineering and biomedical science.

“Kyle’s passion for creative problem solving and engineering shines in the PLTW Engineering course here at Hen Hud,” said science teacher Alan Zollner. “We are extremely proud to see that talent recognized nationally at the 2015 World Maker Faire.”

“The Maker Faire was an incredible experience,” said Kyle. “I’d never been with such a huge group of like-minded people” The college-bound engineering student added, “It made me even more aware of how rewarding this kind of work is.