Below are the FAQs from the Spring Quarter of 2023

Supplies, Tool Use, and Certifications

Does a certification expire?

Certifications do not expire.

Is there any condition in which someone would have to retake a certification class?

There are several reasons someone might need to retake a class.

• If the configuration or even model of the machine changed.
• If the member damaged the machine/tool from fundamental misuse.
• If the member demonstrated a fundamental misunderstanding of safe use.

Can someone who is not certified use a machine like the 3d printer if they have someone certified supervising them?

No. Though a 3D printer is a very light use case, we have found that if a tool requires certification, the user needs to have certification. Adults with Guest Accounts can hold certifications. We are currently considering allowing minors 14+ to hold certification but minors will never be able to use equipment unsupervised.

If someone is certified on a tool but didn’t use the skills for a long time, can they get a refresher class for free?

Unfortunately no. The cost to Ace is the same and not something that is currently underwritten by other funding than the class RSVP fees.

When are the peak hours that the spaces/tools get used?

Weekends and after 6 PM during the week are the most popular. Other than that there are not a lot of very trackable trends that are not seasonal.

When will Ace start giving CNC Certification classes open to the public?

There are several considerations before opening up classes to the public. We are at the end of the primary course development and onboarding of instructors. We hope to start scheduling classes in mid April 2023.

What is the age limit of who can use different tools unsupervised? Is there a different age limit for different machines? For example, table saw and 3d printer.

All independent space and tool users must be 18+ years old. For example, one cannot park their kids in Clean Fabrication to watch a movie, while the adults use the workshop downstairs. For all tools kids need to be able to physically access the tool in a safe way. For example, if the child has to stand on a chair to use a drill press then that tool is not appropriate and another way to drill things with the child needs to be used. Small children do not belong in the shop or metal shop as the space is too small, not child-proofed and requires spatial awareness.

Is there any resin that is free for members to use?

Sometimes. We do not supply consumables of that nature outside of workshops as a general rule. If materials are donated that are not suitable for workshops we do make them available to members.

Where can members use spray paint? Can members use spray paint?

Not right now. Currently, there is not use case as there are no outdoor or ventilated spaces. It cannot be done in the Loading Dock. We might pilot a method for allowing it depending on the product and set up on a small scale.

We are adding small scale air brushing to the art area in April 2023.

Questions about Members and Membership and space use

What is the age limit of who can be a member, get certified and use the tools at Ace?

Ace members must be at least 18 years old. Minors can be guests of members and use tools with supervision but cannot hold certifications. 

Can people who work for a company or are self-employed sell the things they made at Ace independently outside of Ace?

Yes. Ace members can run small businesses out of Ace as long as their use does not exceed the Ace offering and their contribution matches their use. For example, if somebody makes small furniture they cannot bogart the clamps and flexible glue-up area more than 1/3 of the week. There must be space for other users and their projects. If a small business operator needs to have space say 5 days of the week, it is time for them to rent their own space.

Does Ace offer a membership for couples, a family or a group together?

Ace memberships are only offered to individuals. But the guest policy is very generous allowing for couples, families and groups to access the space together.

Volunteering and Monster Corps

How do members volunteer?

There are lots of pathways to volunteering. A few of them are detailed on the Member Contribution Portal.

Do Monster Corps. Volunteers get all of the same membership benefits as paying members? Ex. the unlimited guest policy.

Volunteers in the program have the same rights and responsibilities as other types of members.

Do we ask Monster Corps. Members to contribute their time at least once a month outside of the 8hrs. they are required to do to get membership like we do all other members?

Volunteers in the program have the same rights and responsibilities as other types of members.

Teaching at Ace

Can someone exchange volunteering to teach a class for attending another class for free?

No. We invest quite a bit in our staff and volunteer instructors and do not offer exchanges like this.

Ace Analytics, Funding, and Partnerships

How many members does Ace have?

As of March 2023 approximately 200. Analytics about Ace are reported monthly in our State of the Org reports.

Does Ace collaborate with other programs or companies? If so, how?

Ace collaborates with a variety of programs and organizations that are in alignment with the Ace mission. Sometimes partnerships are sponsorship of First Robotics Teams, or we have mutual aid initiatives where we build or make something and our partners handle distributions. It varies a lot. Contact Rachel Sadd our executive direction to discuss details.

How does Ace get funded?

Ace is funded by Membership dues revenue, class fees, donations, as well as a FSA loan to cover losses during COVID. Analytics about Ace are reported monthly in our State of the Org reports.

What are the prices of the last two spaces in sheet goods storage? (when they are available)

Approximately $20 per month.

Does Ace have private space for rent?

We have one dedicated desk for office work available for rent. . Ace does not have micro studios for rent

Can someone record videos of themselves making things here? (without getting other people in their shot)

Yes. We even have the tools to set up a streaming situation. Including cameras, a good mic, etc. The only tricky part is that we cannot guarantee spaces where you can totally control the sound. And it is considered polite to let users know when and were you will be filming.

Teaching at Ace

How can members volunteer/apply to become instructors?

Information on staff positions is posted on the Opportunities page. Otherwise, an inquiry sent to [email protected] is the way to go.

What is the instructor selection process? 

For hiring staff instructors it follows our basic hiring practices. For volunteers, similar criteria are applied. It needs to be a good fit. Our idea instructors have domain knowledge, and experience teaching, and embrace the Ace mission and cultural practice.