In the wake of the devastating Maui wildfires, a high school student from New Jersey is making a difference by introducing 3D printing technology to students at Princess Nāhiʻenaʻena Elementary School in Lahaina. This initiative not only supports recovery efforts but also inspires a new generation of innovators through hands-on STEM education.
Empowering Students Through 3D Printing Education
Sixteen-year-old Aditya Pande, a junior at the Academy for Health and Medical Sciences in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, traveled to Maui to teach elementary students how to use 3D printers. His goal was to help students affected by the wildfires rebuild their community and gain valuable skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
Pande’s initiative, called Let’s 3D Create, is a nonprofit organization he founded to bring 3D printing education to underserved communities. In Lahaina, he worked with students to design and print objects such as keychains, name tags, and even small architectural models. These activities not only introduced students to digital design and fabrication but also gave them a creative outlet to process the trauma of the wildfires.
3D Printing as a Tool for Recovery and Innovation
The 2023 wildfires in Lahaina destroyed homes, schools, and infrastructure, leaving many families displaced. In this context, 3D printing became more than just a learning tool—it became a symbol of resilience and rebuilding. Pande’s workshops allowed students to visualize and create models of their dream homes, giving them a sense of hope and control over their future.
“It was amazing to see how quickly the students picked up the technology,” said Pande. “They were excited to create things that represented their identity and their hopes for the future.”
By integrating 3D printing into the classroom, Pande also helped teachers incorporate project-based learning into their curriculum. This approach encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration—skills that are essential in both education and future careers.
How Let’s 3D Create Is Expanding Access to STEM
Let’s 3D Create has already reached students in several states, including New Jersey, New York, and now Hawaii. The organization provides 3D printers, training, and curriculum support to schools that lack access to advanced technology. Pande raises funds through donations and grants, and he partners with local educators to tailor the program to each community’s needs.
In Lahaina, the program was especially impactful because many students had never seen a 3D printer before. The hands-on experience sparked curiosity and opened their eyes to new possibilities in engineering and design. For some, it was the first time they considered a future in STEM fields.
“We want to make sure that every student, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to explore technology and innovation,” said Pande. “3D printing is a powerful way to do that because it’s interactive, creative, and accessible.”
The Broader Impact of 3D Printing in Education
3D printing is increasingly being used in schools around the world to enhance STEM education. It allows students to bring their ideas to life, from simple prototypes to complex mechanical parts. Educators have found that 3D printing helps students understand abstract concepts in math and science by making them tangible.
In disaster-affected areas like Lahaina, 3D printing can also play a role in rebuilding infrastructure. While Pande’s project focused on education, the technology has broader applications in emergency response, such as printing replacement parts, medical devices, or temporary shelters.
As 3D printing becomes more affordable and user-friendly, initiatives like Let’s 3D Create demonstrate how young leaders can use technology to make a meaningful impact. Pande’s work in Lahaina is a testament to the power of youth-driven innovation and the importance of equitable access to STEM resources.
Source: Maui Now
