08/18/2026
Sometimes 3d Printing is not about the little items. It is about the drive and determation to help others as well.
A 13-year-old boy from Lehi, Utah, has used his passion for 3D printing to do something truly meaningful. While many children his age were enjoying their summer vacation, Zac Waters spent nearly 300 hours designing and building a custom mobility chair for a 21-month-old girl. His project combined his interest in technology with his desire to help someone who needed support.
Zac first became interested in 3D printing after watching videos about the technology on YouTube. As he learned more, he wanted to use his skills for a purpose beyond simply creating objects. His search introduced him to MakeGood, a New Orleans-based nonprofit that provides free 3D-printed mobility devices to children with disabilities. Through its volunteer network, people with 3D printers can build mobility equipment at home using open-source designs.
Zac was matched with a 21-month-old girl through MakeGood and began creating a chair specifically suited to her needs. The project took up much of his summer, as he spent approximately 300 hours designing, printing, testing and assembling the different parts before completing it.
The finished mobility chair was carefully customized for the toddler. It included pink details because pink is her favourite colour. Zac also added a removable cupholder and a tray table to make the chair more convenient for everyday use. The design was created with her growth and changing needs in mind. The footrest and headrest can be adjusted, while the back panel has room for heavier medical equipment. Soft, flexible material was also used for the straps to improve comfort.
For Zac, the project brought together two things he enjoys most: 3D printing and helping people. His family also supported him throughout the process. His grandmother, Charlotte Waters, said the family helped him stay focused while giving him freedom to develop and test his own ideas. She hoped the experience would teach him that helping others can be one of the most meaningful things a person can do.
The experience has encouraged Zac to continue improving his 3D-printing abilities. Although he has not chosen a specific career yet, he says he would like to do something related to technology in the future. His project is also part of MakeGood's larger volunteer effort. The organization has delivered more than 1,000 Toddler Mobility Trainers, although hundreds of requests remain pending.
