Makerspace to open soon
The university’s Design-Explore-Create (D.E.C.) Makerspace is a studio that’s equipped with technological design equipment and software including computers and other high-tech equipment, and will be open to students before Spring Break.
The Makerspace is part of TAMUK’s Title V Grant – Fostering Pathways to Success, led by grant Executive Director Dr. Agnes L. Flores and presented by Student Services Coordinator Elsie Chapa-Arias.
Title V Grants are designated for developing Hispanic Serving Insituations, allowing the opportunity to expand educational offerings and program qualities.
TAMUK’s grant was chosen to help provide infrastructure with the goal to institutionalize technology-based design and a creative computer component lab using design software that usually isn’t available to students.
“The D.E.C. Makerspace studio offers equipment and software to include top-of-the-line MAC and HP computers, large format printers, 3D printers, laser cutter, scanners, sewing/ embroidery machines, student lounge, and workstations along with the required server infrastructure, on-site support and miscellaneous hardware,” Chapa-Arias said.
Makerspace is available to any student and is intended to help students with all projects whether it be personal or professional during and after class hours.
“Faculty that wish to have their class utilize the D.E.C. Makerspace to produce an item may do so at no cost to the student,” Chapa-Arias said.
Chapa-Arias said the D.E.C. Makerspace will officially open before Spring Break, and student workers have been hired to help students with the different technological programs offered.
“Working at the makerspace has let me learn all kinds of software and the maximums and minimums of the technology presented to us and how far we can let our creativeness flow,” senior student worker Enisa Gonzales said.
Small fees are included for users depending on the type of material used. The studio will only be accepting Flux Cash as a form of payment or pre-loaded cards if a community member want to use the space.
Those who are current students, faculty, staff and community members who are interested in using the studio will be required to fill out a user agreement and release form before use which will be available on the TAMUK website.
“The makerspace offers a great opportunity for students to take initiative and create their own projects….to learn how to use new types of machines and things and just grow as individuals, learning new skill sets. I feel like it’s a great thing to be on campus because it offers both a break from class, something to go to, to sort of explore and learn new things as well as something to use to complete assignments to put forth their best effort into going above and beyond their school work,” freshman Mark De La Cruz said.
