New MakerLab at Central Arizona College Provides Learning Opportunities for Students and Community
by: Angela Askey, Executive Director Public Relations and Marketing
(NEWS RELEASE) Central Arizona College recently implemented a MakerLab at the Signal Peak Campus. This new collaborative learning space is open to students, faculty, staff and community members.
The MakerLab is designed to allow new participants and those with varying skill levels a place to explore, discuss and make new items. Students enrolled in STEM, engineering and computer information system programs are sharing their knowledge and working together to learn 3D printing. They will complete individual and group projects such as printing jewelry and chess sets, and building a robotic arm and drones. Students are encouraged to bring in their ideas for projects.
The space contains four 3D printers purchased with STEM grant funding. With support from the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College Career Training (TAACCCT) grant, a new laser cutter and laser scanner will be added in the near future.
Carrie McIntyre, STEM Program Advisor explains, “We are continuing to develop the MakerLab at the Signal Peak Campus and hope to expand this service to other campus locations. Our goal is to provide a student run space that will allow for tutoring, class sharing and faculty office hours, along with open discussion, making and prototyping opportunities.” She added, “Everything that is added or done within this space is and will be based on student input.”
The MakerLab, located in room 115 of the S Building, is currently open each Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. and on Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Individuals who want to use the MakerLab space must attend a workshop to learn how to properly use the equipment. The next 3D Printing Introductory Workshop is scheduled for Monday, November 28 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. To reserve a spot, email carrie.mcintyre@centralaz.edu.
