It鈥檚 a fab lab: Carnegie Science Center鈥檚 BNY Fab Lab inspires makers of all ages
Courtesy of the Carnegie Science Center
Technology is growing by leaps and bounds these days.
Just last year, a team in Dubai set a record for constructing the largest 3D-printed villa and it took just two weeks.
This is just one example of the many strides being made in the tech world. Stories like these abound, and the Carnegie Science Center is doing its part to spark curiosity and innovation. By introducing visitors of all ages to high-tech tools and hands-on experiences, the Science Center hopes to inspire future inventors, engineers and entrepreneurs.
Recently, the Carnegie Science Center unveiled its completely reimagined and newly relocated BNY Fab Lab, named in recognition of support from BNY Mellon. The lab now occupies a prime spot on the third floor of the Science Center’s main building on Pittsburgh’s North Shore.
Tools to spark creativity
Visitors can explore a wide range of high-tech tools, including 3D printers and pens, laser and vinyl cutters, CNC routing and milling machines, an embroidery machine, design software and more.
Jon Doctorick, the Carnegie Science Center’s director of STEM Outreach, says the new space has so far been a hit. “We’re seeing families helping other families to use new technology tools and people learning through observation,” he said.
And those who are concerned about the safety of the machines in the hands of children needn’t be worried. “We’ve been doing programming for 10 years and have vetted all the different machines so that it’s a very safe space,” he said.
Jason Brown, the Science Center’s director, said that the previous space was “a bit off the beaten path” but the new location will enable guests to find the lab a little easier. “It’s behind a big glass wall and as people walk by they will be invited in,” he said.
Flash workshops
A highlight of the new lab is flash workshops. “Guests can experiment with the machines and try a 10-minute make and take,” said Brown, adding that the workshops are included with the price of admission.
The lab is designed to empower creators as young as age 8. “We view this space as a place of ‘masterful mistakes,'” said Doctorick. “In fact, we encourage people to fail and we even highlight those failures in a lighted case. We want it to be all about iterating and collaborating,” he said. The lab accommodates about 25 participants, with staff on hand to offer help when needed.
Brown also addresses the collaboration aspect of the space. “We’re going to try out longer make and takes and see what our visitors like,” he said.
According to Brown, past projects include holiday ornaments and t-shirts made by screen printing. “What we’re encouraging people to do is to come in with an idea and create a prototype,” he said.
The STEM mentor program
The Carnegie Science Center is dedicated to encouraging the next generation of STEM professionals through its “Mentors in the Making,” program, which pairs high school students with professionals in the STEM fields.
The program, which was launched in 2017, requires that participants commit to weekly sessions from November through April to develop their skills and learn how to use the lab’s resources.
Wide possibilities
But the space isn’t just for young students.
“Older folks who may find technology daunting can come in and learn too,” Doctorick said. “Technology can be daunting, but we’re encouraging seniors to come in and learn how to operate the equipment to feel more at ease with technology,” he added.
Doctorick said that the lab has practical applications across the board.
“When guests visit, they can learn how to save files, upload to a cloud and increase their technical fluency, which is valuable in many fields, but especially ones like engineering, or design,” he said.
Brown said that relocating and reimagining the old space is a win for everyone. “We’re so excited to have it in this new location. It’s more visible and more accessible and we’re looking forward to conducting senior workshops and summer camps for students.
Brown said that the new space will reach more people “who might want to dip their toe into making, or experiment further by signing up for our classes and doing a deeper dive.” he said. Brown also said that relocating and reimagining the old space is a win for everyone. “We’re so excited to have it in this new location. It’s more visible and more accessible and we’re looking forward to conducting senior workshops and summer camps for students.”
Stephanie Kalina-Metzger is a freelance writer.