Meet Andy Barrett, 13, who turned school 3D printer into a small business

Thirteen-year-old Andy Barrett has turned his middle school's 3D printer into a small business, designing and selling custom fidget toys. The project started in a technology and engineering class, where Andy realized the potential of 3D printing technology beyond simple trinkets. He designed the toys with the help of basic design software and brightly colored plastic filament, using the school's lab to perfect his creations.

Andy sold 150 fidget toys to fellow students, teachers, and neighbors, using all the profits to support epilepsy awareness and research. He decided to direct the money towards funding epilepsy research and helping families dealing with the condition, as he knew people in his life who had epilepsy and wanted to help raise awareness.

The success of his business was fueled by support from his teachers, family, and neighbors. Andy's story shows that young people can use their passions and resources to make a meaningful impact on their communities.