By Cecilia Nasmith/Today’s Northumberland
An informal network of local manufacturers, makers and volunteers have organized their own supply chain for 3D printing, rapid prototyping and production of face shields needed as part off the PPE response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The group is quickly ramping up production of this vital component of personal protective equipment for hospitals, long-term care facilities, emergency responders and providers of essential services across the county
“This is about community and the passion we all have to use advanced technology and innovation to drive production of personal protective equipment for front-line workers, retired Canadian Coast Guard Captain and Quality Assessment lead Colin Slade said in the press release issued by the Venture 13 innovation and entrepreneurship centre.
“With all of the support we have received from volunteers, industry and partners, we are able to make a real difference under extremely challenging circumstances. Thank you to everyone who has and will continue to support us in this effort. We know we can count on you.”
That list continues to grow, as members of the community come on board. The list to date of individuals and organizations who have reorganized, retooled or repurposed operations, or donated their time, expertise and energy to this alliance includes Argentum Electronics, Belden, Catherine Gissing, Canadian Wear Technologies, Cobourg Police Service, Colin and Helen Slade, Custom Plastics International, Durham College and its network of printers, Jane and Todd Ferguson, Jeremy Fowlie, Microfactory Co-operative at the Venture 13 Maker Lab, Millard Towers, Northumberland Community Futures Development Corporation, Northumberland Hills Hospital, Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation, Northumberland Makers,, Northumberland Manufacturers Association, Orono Design, Sabic Innovative Plastics Canada Inc. Team Eagle Ltd., Watershed Magazine, Venture 13 and the Town of Cobourg, as well as five anonymous contributors.
New partners continue to join in, and they continue to be welcome. If you have 3D printing, rapid prototyping or manufacturing capacity, or other production capabilities – or can donate materials and supplies – you are urged to contact the Town of Cobourg.
Members of the public can also support the effort through the GoFundMe campaign that has been created in support of this work. Unused funds, if any, will support local hospital foundations in Cobourg and Campbellford.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
