Hello, my name is Dillon Podach. I am based in Toledo, Ohio, where I teach 7th and 8th grade Engineering at Explorers Academy of Science and Technology. In our lab, we work with advanced fabrication tools including 3D printers, a laser cutter, and a desktop CNC machine. I am also part of the school robotics team, collaborating with two colleagues to mentor students in design, engineering, and hands-on problem-solving.

I grew up in a small rural town surrounded by farmland, where I developed a strong appreciation for working outdoors and building things with my hands. During 11th and 12th grade, I attended a STEM school focused on Auto Technology, which strengthened my passion for mechanical systems and fabrication.

Most of my experience has been hands-on. Give me metal, wood, raw materials, tools, and a problem to solve, and I will figure out how to build it. Programming and digital design were not originally my strongest areas, which is one of the reasons I joined Fab Academy. My goal is to expand my skills in digital fabrication and bring new knowledge and opportunities back to my students.

I consider myself a jack of all trades: adaptable, hands-on, and always willing to learn. I believe versatility, problem solving, and continuous growth are key traits of a strong engineer and educator.

During Fab Academy, I am using this website to document my weekly assignments, final project progress, design work, electronics, coding, fabrication, mistakes, fixes, and lessons learned along the way.