As the CCC Maker Initiative grows a network of community college makerspaces across California, collaboration with K-12 educators and community organizations is on the rise. This presentation will use several case studies to explore the potential of making to catalyze partnerships along the educational pathway. From the Allan Hancock College partnership with the Children's Discovery Museum and Santa Maria Public Library to the College of the Canyons ecosystem of 25 schools and colleges, each partnership reflects the shared values and priorities of their respective communities. These dynamic relationships required adaptive flexibility, effective communication, and inclusive strategies to reach successful outcomes for students and the community. The presentation will include broader lessons learned from the first year of the CCC Maker Initiative, as well as useful information about the unique qualities of the community college ecosystem for those intending to form pathway partnerships.
