FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 06, 2026

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Manufacturing Program Student uses to 3D Printing Technology for Cost-Saving Elections Equipment Solution

SANFORD, Fla. (April 6, 2026)  — Seminole County Supervisor of Elections Amy Pennock today announced a partnership with Lake Mary High School to implement a solution that will save taxpayers more than $16,000 while extending the life of essential election equipment.

The collaboration began after elections staff identified a failure in a small but critical printer component used in daily elections operations – a clip that holds ballot paper in place. Because the manufacturer does not offer the clip as a standalone part, the only available solution was to replace the entire printer drawer at a cost of $125 per unit. With approximately 150 printers in use, the total projected cost exceeded $18,000.

Seeking a more cost-effective solution, the office partnered with the Manufacturing Program at Lake Mary High School, led by instructor Chris Endress. Sophomore Ethan Sigal designed a replacement component using computer-aided design (CAD) software, then produced the part using 3D printing technology at a cost of approximately $15 per unit.

This morning Endress, Sigal, and Sigal’s family visited the Seminole County Supervisor of Elections Office to deliver the completed components. During the visit, they toured the facility and saw first-hand how the parts will be used to support election operations.

“This partnership is a great example of problem-solving at its best,” said Supervisor of Elections Amy Pennock. “We identified a challenge, looked beyond traditional solutions, and found an answer within our own community. It not only delivers meaningful savings for taxpayers but also gives a student the opportunity to apply real-world skills in a way that directly supports our elections.”

The program has opened a world of opportunities for the students.  “This program has been very impactful for me – it’s the reason I’m able to attend Lake Mary High School,” stated Ethan Sigal, Lake Mary High School (10th grade student).  Ethan continued, “I’m zoned for Seminole High, but I chose Lake Mary for this program. Through it, I’ve gotten a glimpse into what the engineering field is like and earned certifications in three software programs.”

The locally developed solution significantly reduces costs while maintaining operational reliability and avoiding costly equipment replacement.

The initiative reflects the office’s ongoing commitment to innovation, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement—core principles that guide the delivery of free, fair, and transparent elections.

D’Anne Mica

407-739-1993m | [email protected]