LA PLATA, MD — The College of Southern Maryland is encouraging residents to pursue new skills and interests in the new year through its Personal Enrichment programs and the Makerspace at the Velocity Center in Indian Head.
The programs, offered across the college’s campuses in La Plata, Leonardtown, and Prince Frederick, cover diverse topics including travel, food, arts and crafts, dog training, language learning, and IT skill development. These noncredit courses provide opportunities for community members to explore new hobbies or deepen existing passions.
Credit: College of Southern Maryland
The Makerspace at the CSM Velocity Center in Indian Head serves as a key resource for hands-on creative work. The collaborative workspace grants public access to professional-grade equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, soldering irons, and vinyl printers. Additional resources support gaming, robotics, and app development.
Makerspace Coordinator Jack Gaskins stated, “The Makerspace is a unique place which empowers Southern Maryland residents to bring ideas to life or try their hand at creating something new. Staying inspired and motivated to try new things fuels personal growth, and the beginning of a new year is a great time to start.”
Gaskins leads monthly equipment training courses focused on design creation and production using laser cutters, vinyl printers, and cutters. Several training sessions are scheduled throughout January 2026.
In December 2025, the Makerspace hosted a youth enrichment workshop where participants designed images using software, then printed, cut, and heat-pressed them onto T-shirts and tote bags as holiday gifts.
Gaskins added, “We want to expand access to the Makerspace and give students the opportunity to develop creative skills that have a positive impact on the community. That kind of hands-on experience fosters curiosity, creativity, and innovation well beyond the classroom.”
Workshops remain open to the public, though certain Makerspace courses require membership. Annual and monthly memberships are available following completion of the required Introduction to Makerspace class, which the facility offers regularly.
Community Enrichment Director Tony Warrick highlighted the broader mission of the Personal Enrichment offerings. He said, “It’s never too late to chase a new dream, follow a new inspiration, or pursue a new opportunity. The Personal Enrichment courses are built to meet the needs of our community and help residents grow the talents they want to develop.”
Last fall, CSM Community Education introduced Thrive 60+, a program designed for adults age 60 and older. Courses in this series are offered free or at low cost with support from the CSM Foundation, creating a supportive setting for participants to explore new activities.
Warrick stated, “The new year is the perfect time to invest in yourself. The Thrive 60+ and Personal Enrichment courses offer a practical way to begin the year strong, make meaningful progress towards your goals, and continue on the path of lifelong learning.”
The Spring 2026 Community Education catalog, which details all upcoming Personal Enrichment courses, is accessible online. These offerings support lifelong learning for residents throughout Southern Maryland, including Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s counties, by providing accessible, community-focused educational opportunities.