Fannin County High School (FCHS) student and Technology Student Association member Bryce Ware has been producing protective masks for medical workers in the area in response to a shortage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“For first responders and medical personnel to deal with this virus, they need personal protective equipment,” Ware said. “Due to recent shortages though, hundreds, if not thousands, do not have access to this necessary form of protection.”
Engineering teacher Bubba Gibbs explained the process of making the masks, stating, “Bryce is using the MakerBot 3D printers from the Engineering classroom at FCHS to 3D print respirator mask bases. It takes approximately nine hours to produce one mask base.”
Ware is working closely with Dr. Causey of Causey Orthodontics in Blairsville, Georgia, who is combining the 3D printed bases with filters.
“My role is to manufacture the reusable frames of these masks using the school’s 3D printer,” Ware said. “After that, they are sent off to Dr. Causey and his team to be distributed to counties like Fannin and many others.”
Gibbs expressed his pride for Ware, stating, “I am very proud of him for using his talents to help with this noble cause.”
Ware encourages the community to practice social distancing by “staying home as much as possible.”
He said, “I hope everyone is staying safe during this time of crisis.”