Volunteering Opportunities
At Public Invention, we believe anyone can be an inventor for the public good. Join a global community of engineers, makers, designers, and dreamers building open-source solutions to society’s toughest challenges.
Who Can Mentor - Volunteer?
Engineers, scientists, programmers, content creators, technical writers, bloggers, graduates, undergraduates, biomedical, semiretirees, retirees—if you’re interested in helping, we’ll find a place for you. Our projects need all kinds of skills, and you don’t have to be a tech expert to make an impact.
Why Volunteer With Us?
Every project you join helps many projects. You’ll learn new skills, work with mentors, and see the difference you’re making in open source. Our volunteers:
- Mentor or learn from others
- Code and test new tools designed as Educational Platforms
- Design interfaces that increasing exposure to health minded designs
- Research real-world problems with doctors and engineers
- Document solutions so others can build on them
- Build and design open-source hardware and software
- Organize events and fundraising
- Help manage projects or write documentation
- Spread the word through outreach and social media
- Help us spread our efforts and grow our mission
Are you an entry-level? No problem. We welcome graduates and undergraduates from all backgrounds and skill levels.
What’s In It For You?
- Collaborate with experienced mentors in tech and research
- Grow your portfolio with real-world projects
- Make friends and connections across the world
- See your work in action, improving public infrastructure
Volunteer Stories
“I wouldn't say I have an inspiring story per se, but as someone who has never taken on a project like this before and was scared to start, it was super rewarding to have the opportunity to get out of my comfort zone in a supportive environment, all while doing good for the community and the environment.”
— Bene Skirde, Public Inventor (New Jersey, USA)
“Robert was and still is inspiring to me. Even as a newly graduated student with no experience, he welcomed me to his organization and even his home, and lent me tools and resources to learn how to use the Arduino. I'll never forget his kindness and patience.”
— Andres Morena, Public Inventor (California, USA)
"I would say Public Invention has helped me kickstart my knowledge in web development by a zoom and I’m very grateful for that." - Hieu Ngo, Public Inventor (California, USA)
"Being involved with Public Invention has been rewarding in many ways. When I joined the organization, I knew nothing past basic Python but I had an interest and a fire within to learn. PI stoked that fire, introducing me to the principles of electrical engineering where I worked with an invention coach to refine an exciting innovation, as well as submit my first scientific paper. I also learned the valuable skill of leadership as the project product and project manager. " - Melanie Laporte, Public Inventor (NY, USA)
"Public Invention has opened up several opportunities for career advancement and working on very interesting projects." - Lawrence Kincheloe, Public Inventor, (Oklahoma, USA)
How It Works
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Apply Online
Fill out a short form so we can get to know you and what you’d like to do. -
Let’s Meet
We’ll reach out to schedule a short introductory call. This is a chance to get to know each other, learn about your interests and skills, and answer any questions. -
Get Matched
After our chat, we’ll connect you with a project or team that fits your background and passions. -
Make a meaningful Impact
Jump in and collaborate with Public Inventors volunteers and Inventors Coaches remotely in Discord with your new team.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much time do I need to commit?
Most volunteers spend 6 hours a week, but you manage your time. We’re flexible!
Can I volunteer remotely?
Yes! Most of our work is fully remote, so you can join from anywhere.
Do I need to be in the US?
No—our volunteers come from all over the world.
Do I need specific experience?
We welcome passionate individuals from all backgrounds. Whether you're a researcher, mathematician, coder, designer, maker, healthcare professional, or simply enthusiastic about STEM and making a difference, there's a place for you.
We're especially looking for undergraduate and graduate students eager to apply their skills, as well as semi-retired and retired professionals who want to mentor and share their expertise. Your knowledge and passion can have a real impact!
Still have questions?
Email us at comms@pubinv.org or join our Discord community.
Ready to Get Started?
Everyone has something to offer. Let’s Invent in the public, for the Public.—together.
Let's meet
Or, see the active projects and offered project concepts to find your perfect fit.
Questions?
Email us at comms@pubinv.org
Volunteer for Public InventionCon 2026
Becoming Humanitarian Engineers and Public Inventors
We're looking for passionate volunteers to help us run our Demo Day — a showcase of open-source hardware inventions built to solve real-world problems. Volunteers are the backbone of the experience. Whether you're technical, creative, or just enthusiastic, there's a role for you.
🎙️ Emcee & Presenter Support
Help introduce Key Speakers, Public Inventors, keep the schedule on track, and ensure every presenter has what they need to shine on stage.
ON STAGE
📸 Photography & Video
Capture demos, interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments. Help us tell the story of the event visually for the public.
CREATIVE
🖥️ Livestream & Tech Ops
Manage the technical side of the broadcast — streaming setup, audio, slides, and screen sharing for remote attendees.
TECHNICAL
📋 Registration & Welcome
Be the first friendly face attendees see. Manage check-in, hand out materials, and guide guests through the event space.
FRONT OF HOUSE
📣 Social Media & Outreach
Post live updates, share inventor highlights, and amplify the event's reach before, during, and after Demo Day.
COMMUNICATIONS
🔧 Setup & Logistics
Help set up tables, displays, equipment, and signage before the event. Break down and pack up afterwards. Heavy lifting welcome!
ON THE GROUND
What to Expect on Demo Day
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18:00 AMVolunteer Arrival & Briefing
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Breakfast. Meet the team, get your role assignment, and walk through the space before doors open.
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28:30 AM
Doors Open to Attendees
Guests arrive and begin exploring inventor tables. Registration and welcome volunteers are live. - 3
9:00 AM
Key Speaker Kids Operating Rooms - Dave Tipping
- 4
9:30 AM
Humanitarian Engineering and Public Invention - Robert L. Read, PhD
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59:45 AMLive Demos BeginInventors present their projects in timed slots. Stage and tech volunteers keep everything flowing.
Open Exploration & Q&A
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610:30 AMCourtyard Demonstration of the Low-Gravity Particulate Inertial Filter for NASA,
Attendees move freely between projects. and a chance to connect with inventors and fellow volunteers.
Social media volunteers capture candid moments. -
711:00 AMEcoPot: More Efficient Pot for Cooking on Gathered Wood -- featuring live test
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811:30 AMEngineers Without Borders: Civil Engineering one Community at a time -- Lizzie Wilson, PE
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812:00 AMLunch -- brainstorming invention ideas icebreaker
Connect with inventors and fellow volunteers.
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912:30 PM
How to be a Public Inventor: Marc Jones, attorney, and Robert L. Read, PhD
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101:00 PM
Ferro Fluid Pump: Student-developed pump with NO MOVING PARTS -- Asim Abidi
- 11
1:15 PM
Passive Ferrofluid Check Valve: Valve with NO MOVING PARTS -- Joe Hershberger
- 12
1:30 PM
Biochar Toilet: Convenient Global Sanitation - Lawrence Kincheloe and team
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132:00 PMCoffee - Audience Project Evaluation: Assign Millifullers to our work
Connect with inventors and fellow volunteers.
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142:30 PMKrake: Demonstration of a groundbreaking wirele alarm device
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143:00 PMAlarm Dialog Management: Making alarm systems open, cheap, and systematic
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153:30 PM
Closing Remarks: The American Open Source Invention Philosophy: Robert L. Read, PhDCommunity announcements
All volunteers are celebrated -
164:00 PMBreakdown & Wrap-UpLogistics crew helps pack down.