The Frederick County Office of Economic Development (FCOED) has released the results of a comprehensive feasibility study assessing the county’s
makerspace network.
A makerspace is a shared space where people can use tools and equipment to build, create, and bring their ideas to life. Conducted by Jon Stover & Associates (JS&A) and supported by TEDCO, the study concluded that Frederick provides opportunities to support and strengthen the makerspace ecosystem and outlines a path forward for enhancing innovation, workforce development, and entrepreneurship across Frederick County.
From the county press release:
“A makerspace offers more than the tools and technology needed to build a business – it’s a catalyst for creativity, innovation, and collaboration,” County Executive Jessica Fitzwater said. “In Frederick County, we recognize the power of these spaces to unlock potential across our community. This makerspace feasibility study is an exciting step forward in our commitment to foster economic growth and highlights how we can leverage partnerships as a strategic investment in our workforce.”
Key Findings from the press release:
- Existing Facilities Need Support: The FCC Monroe Center Makerspace could benefit from expanded programming and staffing to increase its utilization. The Frederick Makerspace, currently in development, is set to fill a key gap in community access to maker resources.
- Strong Regional Demand: With over 1.6 million people living within a 45-minute drive, Frederick County is ideally positioned to support a wider variety of makerspace types.
- Job Market Alignment: Local job growth is expected across many maker-aligned sectors, including biotech, skilled trades, and design—making makerspaces a strategic workforce development tool.
- Recommended County Role: The study outlines three potential levels of engagement for FCOED—Supporter, Amplifier, and Proactive Leader—each offering tangible strategies for scaling maker initiatives based on community needs and available resources. FCOED will focus heavily on the Supporter and Amplifier roles, operating as a supportive partner with the groups creating and operating makerspaces in Frederick County. This will include filling in gaps in the county’s makerspace ecosystem to help existing and future makerspaces be successful. FCOED will leverage partnerships and collaboration to invest in and bring additional resources to these makerspaces.
