Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Generator?
The Generator is a 501(c)3 non-profit makerspace that has been serving Northern Nevada since it was founded in 2013.
The mission of The Generator is to continuously build a creative community by offering a safe and supportive space where people can share knowledge, explore interests, and follow their curiosity. We are an open and accepting environment where all are welcome regardless of background, skills, education, or experience. We believe that the personal growth of the individual leads to the evolution of both the greater community and the work it produces.
The Generator is a space where you can learn a new skill through a workshop, participate in epic events, become a member and have access to shared equipment, rent a space for a short term project or even set up your own art studio.
How can I share my skills with the community?
If you would like to share your skills with the community, fill out our workshop application form at the bottom of the workshop page. We have opportunities for you to share what you love and get paid per participant who attends.
I signed up for membership, now what?!
Welcome to The Generator Community! Enroll yourself in member orientation or email Ciana@TheRenoGenerator.com to get started on your journey within The Generator! Member Orientation is where you will get you familiar with the ins-and-outs of being a member by going over our member handbook, a more specialized tour to get you knowledgeable on what our different shops have to offer, learn about our equipment reservation and signoff processes and receive your key fob to gain access to our facility during our standard open hours!
The fabrication shops are finally open, how do I get access?
The fabrication shops require a few things to have independent use of equipment.
Generator Membership
You need to have a fabrication membership or a small shop membership + a fabrication day pass.
Membership can be signed up for online or in person.
Safety course and check off
Once your membership is in place, enroll in a Genny-U 101 class
Take and pass the quiz emailed to you once class is complete (you have 7 days to take your test!
The Generator uses ‘Google Classrooms’, you will have access to all course materials to refer back to if you ever want to refresh your knowledge.
Use the equipment you have been signed off for
If you have prior wood or metal working skills, you can request to test off on further equipment without taking the paid 102+ courses
If you need training on tools past what is gone over in our free 101 classes, you must enroll in a paid class.
I want my own studio at The Generator, how do I go about doing that?
We currently have openings for studio artist space! Studios are $1 per sqft + a small shop or fabrication shop membership. Fill out the studio artist application on our membership page so we know what you’re looking for. Our facilities Director, Ski, will reach out to you to schedule a meeting to tour you around The Generator and discuss your options.
We take artists working within all mediums, as long as the work you do falls within our current city permitting. The Generator can not currently allow mechanical work, black smithing, certain ceramics, etc. If you are unsure if you could do your craft within The Generator, please reach out to Ski@TheRenoGenerator.com.
How can I apply for a subsidized membership?
Please reach out directly to our Membership Director, Ciana@TheRenoGenerator.com to discuss discounted or free memberships. There are opportunities such as volunteer exchange, workshop exchange and more available to those who want to get involved.