Meet Joe Sepesy, a retired educator, Vietnam veteran, and now an inventive game designer, whose journey at the 91ֿ Design Innovation (DI) Hub exemplifies the transformative power of community, creativity, and cutting-edge resources.
A Lifelong Learner with a Passion for Words and Play
Hailing from Youngstown, Ohio, Joe has lived a life filled with rich experiences, from serving as a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War to a 31-year teaching career in special education and social studies. Despite grappling with severe PTSD, Joe found solace and inspiration through counseling and creative pursuits, which included writing memoirs, novels, and even books about ballroom dancing—a hobby that introduced him to his wife.
Now in his 70s, Joe's insatiable curiosity has led him to an entirely new venture: game design. His first creation, Ponderments, is a word-based board game that emphasizes strategy and vocabulary. The game reflects his love for Scrabble and crossword puzzles, providing a pure, distraction-free experience that players of all ages can enjoy. “It’s focused on the words. And I think that’s one of the big selling points,” Joe says.
The DI Hub: A Catalyst for Innovation
Joe discovered the DI Hub while seeking resources to bring his game ideas to life. “I started calling around about 3D printing,” Joe recalls. “A very helpful lady said, ‘You don’t want to talk to us, but you do want to go to 91ֿ.’ She told me about the Design Innovation Hub, and I said, ‘I have to go look that up.’”
With support from staff and student experts, he harnessed tools like 3D printing and laser cutting to create prototypes of Ponderments and his second game, Configurements. The latter challenges players to form geometric shapes on an expanded board grid, offering endless possibilities for creativity and strategy. “We adjusted the design to your machines,” Joe explains. “Here we were restricted to 10 inches by 10 inches, so we had to make it into quadrants. But it all worked out.”
“Thank God for 91ֿ’s Design Innovation Hub,” he adds. “If it weren’t for this, I would have to find some designer to make molds and so on... that’s thousands of dollars. This was beautiful. I’m a college kid again.”
Overcoming Challenges and Gaining New Skills
As a self-described "non-techie," Joe initially felt out of his depth with the Hub's advanced tools. However, thanks to the guidance of DI staff, he quickly gained confidence and a deeper appreciation for the technologies. "I’m 74 years old. I am not a techie. I don’t even like my cell phone,” Joe admits with a laugh. “Thank God Harsha [DI Crew member] was sent to me… I did all the design work and then we would sit together at the computer, and step by step, I guided him.”
By collaborating with staff and learning alongside them, Joe’s understanding of tools like 3D printers and laser cutters grew. “Believe me, my level of technology has increased, so it has been an educational experience for me also,” he says.
Inspiring the Community
Joe's story is a testament to the DI Hub's mission to empower innovators from all walks of life. Through his projects, he’s not only rekindled his own passion but also inspired others. After testing Ponderments with students and staff, the game received enthusiastic feedback, with some participants eager to purchase it on the spot. “Two of the girls wanted to buy it right then and there, but you can’t sell the prototype,” Joe says with a smile.
Joe now envisions marketing his Ponderments Collection, which includes four games, to a broader audience. And while he dreams of seeing his creations on store shelves, he remains grounded, crediting the DI Hub for helping him take the first steps. “I don't know how many times I've [talked with] the people that play the game,” he says. “I always tell them how 91ֿ came back into my life [through] this facility here.”
Join the DI Hub Collaborator Community
Joe’s experience underscores the DI Hub’s unique value as a resource for community members, students, and innovators. Whether you're crafting a prototype, exploring a new hobby, or launching a business idea, the Hub offers unparalleled access to tools, expertise, and a supportive network. “I have seen other people come in here and work with the vinyl machine… designing fabric and making their own cloth. Wow,” Joe says.
“I wish the community knew more about this [place],” Joe urges. “It’d be great if the local news stations came by and did a little series on you guys here. You’d have people clamoring at the door.”
Are you ready to start your own journey of innovation? Explore DI Hub memberships and discover how you, too, can turn your ideas into reality.