Lehigh’s Creativate event hosted by Baker Institute took place on Nov. 16 at Wilbur Powerhouse where attendees could learn about different innovators, create their own mini innovation as a souvenir for coming and see what the Wilbur Powerhouse enables innovators to use.
“It is an open house celebration of student innovation and creativity,” said Lisa Getzler, co-executive director of Lehigh’s Baker Institute for Entrepreneurship, Creativity and Innovation.
At the event, there were 10 innovators showcasing projects from Mountaintop. Other innovators had been Eureka winners from the previous year or are part of IPD, Integrated Product Development program.
“Seeing all the startups that Lehigh students do is my favorite part about Creativate,” Daniel Amankwatia, ‘19, said. “We always hear about schools having resources, but when you see what other kids have done, it’s really cool.”
One innovation featured was an app created to help fraternity recruitments. The goal of the app was to establish better communication within the frat and have an organized way of recruiting.
“Opportunities like this are cool. It is good for experience and meeting other people,” said J.J. O’Brien, ‘16, who presented this new app. He said that he comes to many events like Creativate to showcase his work.
Daniel Levy, ‘16, showcased two projects he has created and manages. One of which is the creation of a 3D printed exoskeleton for rehabilitation with a team at Mountaintop and partnered with Good Shepherd.
The exoskeleton, which helps with motor skills, can be printed for use at Thingiverse, an open source website.
“It was a 10-week project where you can do whatever you want,” Daniel Levy, ’16, said.
Lehigh provided the funding for the idea, the students do the rest. Medical professionals are currently looking into usage of 3D printing.
Levy also created a business of selling South African style beef jerky, Biltong, which he started to sell because he could not find Biltong in America.
“This was probably the best learning experience at Lehigh,” Levy said when talking about creating his two projects.
Attendees did not leave empty handed. There was a chance to collect pieces that would assemble into a miniature powerhouse. Students also could pick up a 3D printed Asa Packer at the 3D printing station and create a button to keep.
The event was a great way for students to learn about what the Wilbur Powerhouse has to offer and a way for students to become inspired by others.
“It makes you want to be part of it next year,” Amankwatia said. “I learned about all the opportunities and all the people that can help you.”
President John Simon also gave a speech where he said that the expansion of Maker Space is a big step for Lehigh by allowing anyone with an idea to create.The Maker Space will be available for anyone with an idea to use.
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