Pumping Station: One

The organization provides a workspace and social group for people interested in learning.[2] Members are encouraged to share the knowledge they already possess and structured classes are very common. A member is not necessarily a "hacker" in the computer sense — some members aren't computer experts — but rather "someone who makes something and modifies it and uses it in a way that wasn’t originally intended."[3] Other members volunteer their professions to support the group, such as through legal support.[4]

Pumping Station: One started as a loosely knit social group of like-minded individuals meeting regularly at local cafes. In April 2009, the lease was signed for 3354 N. Elston Ave. in the city of Chicago.[5]

By the end of 2013, the organization has grown to over 270 members[6] and in mid-June, moved to a new location at 3519 N. Elston Ave.

As of the end of 2016, membership had grown to 435.[7] By this time, the shop had become very well equipped, including a large format CNC router,[8] a 150 watt large format laser cutter,[9] a vertical mill[10] and lathe,[11] as well as a number of 3d printers and other equipment.

As of January 1, 2018 there were 525 members.

• In August 2010, Pumping Station: One took part in a hackerspace challenge sponsored by Scion.[12] Their entry was a Tron-cycle-powered ice cream maker.[13]
• Pumping Station: One member Jim Burke launched the Power Racing Series.[14][15] The first season in 2009 consisted of 6 cars, all backed by other Pumping Station: One members. The second season in 2010 was hosted at the Maker Faire Detroit[16][17] with competitors from several hackerspaces throughout the country.[18]

Facilities include:

• CNC — All computer controlled tools, ranging from 3D printers, to laser cutters, to CNC mills.[19]
• Electronics/mechatronics lab — Where most electronics related things reside, such as meters, scopes, soldering equipment/supplies, and mixed electronics devices for hacking and parts salvaging.[20]
• General area — Includes a lounge room, work table spaces in the shop, and a scanning electron microscope.[21]
• Graphic Arts and Textiles — The sewing and fiber arts section of the space. This contains equipment for sewing, weaving and other related activities.[22]
• Hot Metals — A shop space for hot metals work, such as welding, grinding, and forging.[23]
• Kitchen — The area for all things food and drink related. Beer Church, the brewing group, is mostly hosted here.[24]
• Cold Metals — A shop space for cold metals works. Tools include mills, lathes, etc.[25]
• Woodshop — A shop space for woodworking projects. Tools include a SawStop table saw, router, jointer, and thickness planer.[26]
• Small Metals — A shop space for making jewelry, and other small metal sculpture.[27]

• Official Pumping Station: One website
• Vimby video overview of Pumping Station: One