About Ave Maker Club
Ave Maker Club is a hands-on learning experience for children who want to develop real-world skills in both traditional trades and modern technology. We meet once a week for 1.5 hours in Ave Maria, Florida, where we dive into practical, foundational knowledge with hands-on experience.
Session Details
Program: Each semester we offer one or more series with 12 sessions
Frequency: About once per week
Duration: 1.5 hours per session
Location: (details provided upon enrollment)
Our Four Series
The complete Ave Maker Club curriculum includes four distinct series, each offered as a semester program with 12 weekly sessions. Each series focuses on different skills while building on foundational concepts.
Series 1: Trades & Building Fundamentals
12 Sessions – Hands-on fundamentals of building systems with meaningful scientific proofs. Explore plumbing, electrical, framing, and finishing trades while understanding the science behind each skill.
Topics: Air pressure & plumbing, Electrical basics, Framing, Roofing, Insulation, Drywall, Flooring, Fasteners
Series 2: Electronics, Circuits & Soldering
12 Sessions – Core electronics concepts from basic circuits to microcontrollers. Learn to read schematics, solder components, and program simple devices.
Topics: Electricity basics, Ohm's Law, Series/Parallel, Capacitors, Transistors, Logic gates, Soldering, PCBs, Arduino
Series 3: Programming & 3D Modeling
12 Sessions – Introduction to computational thinking, programming fundamentals, and digital fabrication. Learn to code, design 3D models, and operate fabrication equipment.
Topics: Binary & logic, Variables, Conditionals, Loops, Functions, 3D modeling, 3D printing, Laser cutting
Series 4: Small Engines & Auto Mechanics
12 Sessions – Hands-on mechanical fundamentals covering small engines, automotive systems, and maintenance. Learn engine operation, diagnostics, and essential mechanical repairs.
Topics: Four-stroke engines, Carburetors, Ignition systems, Oil & lubrication, Cooling systems, Brakes, Drivetrain, Electrical systems, Fuel systems, Suspension, Diagnostics
Session Structure
Each 90-minute session combines historical context, scientific principles, and practical skills:
15 min
Historical/Scientific Story
20 min
Instructor Demo
50 min
Hands-On Project
5 min
Show & Reflect
What We Learn
Trades & Mechanics
Master foundational building and mechanical skills:
- Plumbing systems & water pressure
- Electrical wiring & circuit safety
- Framing, roofing & structural concepts
- Drywall, insulation & finishing
- Flooring installation techniques
- Four-stroke engine operation
- Carburetors & fuel systems
- Brake systems & hydraulics
- Automotive diagnostics & maintenance
- Tool use, safety & project planning
Electronics & Tech
Explore electronics, programming, and digital fabrication:
- Circuit design & electronics theory
- Ohm's Law & electrical calculations
- Capacitors, transistors & logic gates
- Soldering & PCB assembly
- Microcontrollers & Arduino programming
- Binary logic & computational thinking
- Variables, loops & functions
- 3D modeling & CAD design
- 3D printing & laser cutting
Our Philosophy
In an age where practical skills are increasingly rare, Ave Maker Club aims to give children a solid foundation in both time-tested trades and cutting-edge technology. We believe in:
- Contact with reality – We teach with real examples and hands-on experiences, not just videos or abstract concepts
- Backed by science and history – Learning the principles and stories behind what we build helps us grasp reality more deeply
- Learning by doing – Active engagement is how we remember and understand
- Parent-child partnership – Parents work alongside their children, strengthening bonds while working together
- Developing virtue – Practical lessons include particular virtues needed to work and serve others well
Required Waivers
Before participating in Ave Maker Club, all families must complete two waivers:
- Safety Waiver – Acknowledging the risks involved in hands-on activities
- Media Release – Permission to use photos/videos for promotional purposes
Get In Touch
Interested in joining Ave Maker Club? Have questions?
Contact us at: