Thomas B.
Yelp
Do you like to build things? Want to learn new skills? Do you have a project that you don't have a tool for, and don't want to invest in the tool because it is way too expensive? Want to powder coat something? Then the Manufactory in Cincinnati is what you need. I took a tour of this place, and was amazed.
I am a big proponent of the trades. There is not a single part of our society, our world, that isn't affected by the trades. We are so conditioned to think that college is the way to go, that you won't be successful without an expensive piece of paper that essentially says you spent a lot of money and can put up with four or more years of BS. That is simply not true. What would our world be without welders, metal workers, plumbers, printers, carpenters, mechanics, and/or a whole host of other skilled workers doing all of that stuff that is easy to take for granted?
I constantly tell my son, "You don't HAVE to go to college to be successful and earn a good, solid living to support your family. What you DO need is a marketable skill (or skills), and the constant drive to be the best you can be in that skill. Some people are well cut out for college, and yes, the world needs college educated people so don't think I'm putting down the collegiate route. But the world also needs skilled tradesmen and craftsmen. Doors are open and available, you just have to make a choice and do your best, be the best in whatever endeavor you choose."
I took a tour of this place on 25 July, brought my whole family out there. It was like being in a candy store to me. I was also watching my son, and the look on his face mirrored what I was feeling inside. My four things I was keenly interested in were the Bridgeport mill, the various lathes, the forge, and the CNC. They literally have everything from old school lathes to laser cutters.
The business is run on a membership basis, much like a gym. And much like a gym, there are tools and such which require classes before use, such as the welding tools. Also, they have lessons for everything else, too. Just like a gym. In my opinion, you get a lot of value for your money if this is what you're interested in.
And just to round off the experience, and perhaps what I like most about the trades, is that everyone there was so friendly. I find that to be true of people who are serious about trades, that they share skills and knowledge. There is nothing better than correctly creating the thing you want to create and seeing someone you are teaching create that first thing they want to create.
Check them out if you're in the area. They offer free tours and I don't think you will be disappointed.
