Blog

The Backyard Shop is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on education, workforce development, and community access to manufacturing tools. Revenue from memberships, services, space, and merch directly funds student training, equipment, and public programs. We document what we learn so others can build stronger programs.

LearnTrainingNonprofit

Training the next shift: how the CNC lab funds workforce access

A candid look at how membership and fabrication revenue is routed into student stipends, tooling, and safety upgrades.

BuildCommunityResilience

Flood recovery fixtures: rebuilding small businesses faster

How our student team designed modular hinge jigs to speed up cabinet rebuilds after the spring floods.

LearnFabricateStudents

Student CNC learning project: balancing scrap and speed

A project log from a student team learning toolpaths while meeting a tight deadline for aluminum brackets.