We had the good fortune of connecting with Shawn Warren and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shawn, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
I like to use additive manufacturing, specifically 3D printing to minimize waste by printing many things on demand using sustainable materials, such as PLA, which is a biodegradable plant based filament. I also prefer to keep pricing low, as South East Colorado is a very impoverished area. My main goal is to get children interested in sciences using the intersection of pop culture with real science producing toys, figure and scientifically accurate reproductions.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m retired engineer, information technology and analyst. I have always had a passion for paleontology and I volunteer with various museums. I utilize my technical background to help excavate, scan and print fossils.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Dinosaurs! Colorado has so many places! Day (1) Hike the Picketwire Canyon Trackway near La Junta to see the largest set of Dinosaur prints in North America. Day (2) Visit Canon City and the Garden Park Dinosaur monument, visit the Royal Gorge and take a train through the canyon. Day (3) Visit the Fruita Dinosaur museum and hike near Grand Junction. Day (5) Visit Dinosaur Colorado and skip over to Vernal Utah for Dinosaur National Monument. Day (5) Visit the Morrison Natural History Museum in Morrison Museum and then Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Twyla Shipler and her shop in Pueblo, Colorado, Mystical Twilight for providing a creative space to allow local artists to showcase their work in a safe, encouraging and affordable environment.

Instagram: @grandpa_dinosaur

Other: Etsy – https://www.etsy.com/shop/GrandpaDinosaurStore

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.