TechShop

TechShop is essentially a dream shop for anyone looking to create something, Manrodt said. The 18,000-square-foot facility is separated into different sections that include an electronics lab, a machine shop, wood shop, metal-working shop, a textiles department and welding stations.

"There's no way a person could afford ... a shop like this, so TechShop gives you the advantage of having all of [these tools] at your fingertips," Warren said.

Jim Newton and Ridge McGhee started TechShop in California in 2006. The business has since grown to seven locations in five states, with several more planned.

A primary goal of TechShop is a focus on building a community among its members, Manrodt said.

"People are always interested in what other people here are doing and if they want to collaborate," he said. "Without all these awesome people here, this is just a place with a bunch of tools in it."

Classes and team-building workshops

• From welding to chair-making, TechShop offers several classes to the public.
• TechShop Facilities Lead Christian Manrodt said the classes, which range from basic to advanced levels, are another way the store empowers people to create what they want.
• The most popular TechShop classes are the Beginner and Safety courses—which are required for those who seek to become TechShop members and use equipment.
• TechShop also hosts team-building workshops for companies. TechShop Accounts Manager Sam Spetalnick said the workshops have proved popular.
• "It gives people something that's hands on that's out of their element that forces them to collaborate and be creative," he said.

Membership cost

• $175 for a one-month membership
• $125 per month for a three-month membership
• $1,395 for an annual membership

120 Sundance Parkway, Ste. 350, Round Rock, 512-900-4664, www.techshop.ws, Twitter: @techshop, Hours: Sun.–Sat. 9 a.m.–midnight