Tech workers have another place to call home in the city: The Revelstoke Idea Factory Tech Meetup.
The event takes place on Thursday, April 18, at 7 p.m. at the Revelstoke Idea Factory on 301 Victoria Road. The social will feature a 15-minute conversation on rapid prototyping techniques and some time to mingle with beer and pizza which will be provided.
While the event hopes to bring together tech workers residing in Revelstoke, it is open to all community members.
The Revelstoke Idea Factory receives funding from the Kootenay Association for Science and Technology (KAST). William Clack is KAST’s Revelstoke coordinator and is organizing the event.
He explained that the Idea Factory’s purpose is to be a maker space and a place where people can use advanced equipment, but without having to pay large upfront costs. Both entrepreneurs and curious folks have been taking advantage of Revelstoke’s maker space.
Clack said that he is “more than happy to help anyone out with any sort of idea” and that the space has helped people create new ski bindings and custom-sized furnishings for camper vans.
“Not everything needs to be a big-picture idea with real market value,” said Clack.
As for the meetup, Clack said that the Idea Factory aims to build community amongst the growing tech community in Revelstoke. The meetup offers both a networking and socializing opportunity as Clack explained that the isolating nature of working remotely can often have a negative toll on one’s mental health.
As well, as those who work in tech often have niche skills, networking is a good opportunity to learn from one another and build a supportive community.
In the past, the tech meetups have included presentations from Cronometer who discussed AI and predictions for this technology in the future, and Jackalope Bikes who discussed 3D modelling and product testing using fine element analysis which is able to test the strength of materials without actually fabricating them.
The Idea Factory is looking into developing courses for the upcoming summer months. You can visit their website for more information.
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