CHAMPAIGN, ILLINOIS – The Learning Technology Center (LTC) is proud to announce Blake Sommer, a seventh grade student at Fulton Jr. High School in O’Fallon School District 90, as the winner of the Illinois State Fair Butter Cow 3D Printing Contest. Blake’s imaginative miniature bovine will be reproduced and distributed as a collectible keepsake at the 2025 Illinois State Fair in Springfield this August.
The statewide contest invited K-12 students across Illinois to blend creativity and technology, using design programs such as Tinkercad, SketchUp and Fusion 360 to create unique 3D renderings of the iconic butter cow that could be converted into printable files. Now in its second year, the student contest builds on the LTC’s tradition of bringing educational technology to the Fair.
The LTC’s design review panel was thrilled by Blake’s submission, which not only highlights the ingenuity of an Illinois student but also showcases the forward-thinking creativity of a young entrepreneur.
Three years ago, Blake launched his own online business, “Blake’s Thingamajigs,” after designing a 3D-printed rivet to fix a broken Croc. Since then, he’s expanded his shop into a hub for custom 3D creations, continuously exploring new ways to turn everyday problems into innovative solutions.
“Blake is amazing and has done so much for our community,” said Katie Dollahon, Fulton Jr. High’s Technology Coordinator. “He is great at what he does, but even more so, his heart is huge and he is very humble.”
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the students and educators who participated in this year’s contest,” said Mindy Fiscus, LTC Director of Government Affairs and Purchasing. “This year’s entries showed outstanding creativity and technical skill, and Blake’s design will be a perfect fit for the 2025 Illinois State Fair.”
The Learning Technology Center is an Illinois State Board of Education program that supports all public K-12 districts, schools, and educators through technology initiatives, services, and professional learning opportunities.
To learn more, visit ltcillinois.org or follow us on social media (@ltcillinois on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube).
Mindy provides leadership, expertise, and support related to broadband connectivity, equipment and device access, and funding sources, including E-Rate.
Kristi leads the Communications team and works to propel the LTC's image through consistent messaging, strategy, and community engagement.
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