Hi, I’m Parker

I have always been curious about the world around me and how things work. I hope you enjoy looking at the projects I’ve completed. If you would like to get in touch, contact me at parkerlofstrom1021 [at] gmail.com.

Experience
  • BitSpace Maker Lab – maker from 2015 – 2021
  • Pumping Station Maker Space – current maker
  • Loyola Academy – Clavius Scholars Honors Program
  • Loyola Academy – Architecture Club
  • Loyola Academy – Sailing Team
  • Loyola Academy – Peer Tutor
  • Loyola Academy – Student Ambassador
  • Loyola Academy – Theater Prop Design and Construction Team / Annie performance 2021
  • Illinois Junior Academy of Science 2019 – Top Board Winner, Regionals; Concept Schools Award Recipient; Gold medal, State competition

  • Haunted House – design, props, construction, production, live event management – 2014 – 2019 (2020 canceled due to COVID)
  • Go-Kart (2 models) – design, engineering, construction
  • Fire-breathing Dragon – design, chemistry, production
  • Apps/Software – Fusion 360, Inkscape, Illustrator, NoLimits2
  • Tools/Skillsets – Prusa 3D printer, ShopBot CNC, universal and BOSS laser cutters, wood shop, electronics, cold metals

Snake Enclosure

After finishing the roller coaster, I wanted to have a smaller project to work on. I have had a snake for a while, but have never been happy with her enclosure. It was a relatively small tank that didn’t look very nice and didn’t suit her well. As a result, I decided to build her a custom enclosure. This new tank would be built out of ¾” birch plywood, as birch is water resistant and is not an allergen to snakes. The pieces were designed in Fusion 360, and then routed out on the ShopBot at Pumping Station. Using the ShopBot allowed for precise cuts, which would aid in assembly later. After assembling, I coated the inside with DryLok paint to keep the inside wood from absorbing water over time. The outside was painted a greyish blue color that accents the color of her scales. Lighting strips were installed around the edges of the top, allowing for a subtle light source, mimicking the sun. Plexiglass was used for the front windows, as it is very light and safe for animals. I hope you enjoy the pictures below.

Written by: plofstrom