High School Students Use 3D Printer To Make Prosthetic Finger For Teacher

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A school in Jackson, Minnesota is using their new 3D printer for more than just teaching art and graphic design.

Students at Jackson County Central High School have been learning to use the new printer all year, printing all sorts of objects, including a prosthetic finger.

One of their art teachers, Galen McCarthy, lost his middle finger and part of his pointer finger in a farming accident when he was 4. Now, the technology has opened the door to new opportunities for him.

"We sat down, and trial and error and a few fingers later, we got one that basically works pretty good," McCarthy said. "I can pick up a coffee cup. I can type. Well, I'm not the world's best typer."

McCarthy says the new finger hasn't changed his life significantly, but hopes improvements to their model eventually can. He joked saying maybe someday he can be a better gamer with his sons.