TACT

Teen Apprentice in Craft and Technology

The TACT program will begin with its fourth cohort of 10 teens from the Pittsburgh region in October 2024. They will explore the intersection of Craft and Technology while working in Contemporary Craft’s three Studios. By the end of the program all participants will be certified to use the Rabbit Laser Cutter and will have completed a capstone project of their own design to be showcased at our Community Day in May 2025.

The program consists of monthly workshops, open studio time, pro-session talks, and dinner provided by Contemporary Craft. Bus transportation on Pittsburgh Public Transit is also provided.

Workshops

Participants will meet at Contemporary Craft one Wednesday a month after school in our Studios. They will learn how to design digital files to run the Rabbit Laser, and work with various craft media.

Open Studio

TACT participants are encouraged to work in the Studios in a supervised but self-guided environment to work with the tools and equipment outside of scheduled workshops.

Pro-sessions

Several TACT sessions will include a guest presenter Pro-Session. Presenters will include university professors, professional artists, and engineers who work with craft and technology.

Capstone

Throughout the program, participants will begin working on a project of their own design using the technology and tools at their disposal. These projects will be showcased at Contemporary Craft’s Community Day in May.

Program Dates

October 9, 2024
November 13, 2024
December 11, 2024
January 8, 2025
February 12, 2025
March 12, 2025
April 9, 2025
May 7, 2025
Community Day Showcase – May 10, 2025

Schedule

After school – 5:00pm – Open Studio
5:00pm – 5:30pm – Dinner and Pro-Session
5:30pm – 8:00pm – Workshop

Eligibility

Any student in grades 9-12 with a strong interest in craft.

Cost

The TACT program is FREE for all participants and includes dinner during each session.

Transportation

Bus passes for Pittsburgh public transit will be provided for students upon request.

Questions

Please contact Jamie Boyle, Program Associate, with any questions at jboyle@contemporarycraft.org.

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