MakerFest breaks record with more than 2,000 young participants
More than 2,000 visitors from primary, lower secondary and upper secondary schools gathered in the woods and laboratories at AU Herning on 9 and 10 September. For the fifth time, the campus hosted MakerFest, offering everything from robotics to making jewellery from recycled materials – and much more.
With more than 2,000 participants and 25 tents, this year’s MakerFest set a new record.
The tents in the woods and the university’s own laboratories were buzzing with activity as visitors had the chance to try their hand at everything from eye tracking and recycled jewellery to industrial robots and 3D printing.
Hands-on technology
In one of the tents, engineer Simon Hauge from DAMRC was demonstrating the company’s technology. Here, visitors could have their names 3D-printed on keyrings while watching the process.
“The young people are very interested in our 3D printer. They get to take something personalised home with them, while also getting to see different types of technology. They find it fascinating,” says Simon Hauge, explaining why the company takes part:
“Hopefully, we can inspire some of the young people to choose this educational path, so that we get more engineers and technicians in the future.”
Teachers also saw great value in taking learning outside the classroom.
“Our pupils find it exciting when they can get hands-on and play around with things. Getting out and experiencing something different is always good for them,” says teacher Anders Bjerge from Sødalskolen.
Turning inspiration into action
MakerFest is not just about looking at technology. At a workshop facilitated by the Danish Foundation for Entrepreneurship, pupils were encouraged to network with exhibitors under the theme “turning inspiration into action”.
“The idea is that they get input for a problem or challenge that they can continue working on when they return to school,” explains programme manager Henrik Thise.
At the Danish Foundation for Entrepreneurship’s tent, visitors also had the chance to show their creativity. If they managed to fold a cup, it was filled with popcorn or crisps.
Connecting the entire chain
For AU Herning, the festival has become a success that builds bridges between different levels of education and the business community. Head of Department Anders Frederiksen is delighted with the strong support and the new participants:
“MakerFest has become a joint project that connects the entire chain – from primary and lower secondary schools through upper secondary education and higher education to the business community.
It is a celebration for everyone with a passion for creativity, design, technology and innovation, whether you are a student, a company representative, a passionate specialist or something else entirely.”
MakerFest 2026 was organised by AU Herning, VIA University College, Business Academy MidtWest and the Danish Foundation for Entrepreneurship, with support from the AUHE Foundation, Færchfonden, Nordea-fonden, Nordjyllandsfonden, Herning Municipality and Bravida.