Week 5 of the ShareIT program delivered yet another engaging experience for students, as they toured the cutting-edge makerspace housed within the 1819 Innovation Hub at the University of Cincinnati (UC). The workshop, led by Lucy Weaver, Coordinator of Unit Operations, immersed students in this informative session exploring this 12,000-square-foot creative facility.
Lucy expertly guided students through various workstations, showcasing the diverse range of tools and fabrication equipment available—from basic hand tools to advanced machinery. The students had the chance to interact with materials like wood, glass, plastic, resin, steel, and even titanium. By touching and examining these materials, they gained insights into properties like weight, texture, flexibility, and strength.
During the tour, Lucy also explained the processes behind key prototyping tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, CAD workstations, and 3D scanners, along with woodworking and soldering equipment. At each station, students observed sample artifacts produced by these tools and learned how UC students use the space to bring their creative ideas to life.
The group also got a glimpse of larger fabrication equipment, including CNC machines, a waterjet cutting table, and welding stations, visible through glass windows. Lucy patiently fielded questions about how these machines work and emphasized the importance of safety when using them. Students were interested to learn that UC students have free access to the makerspace and training, with only material costs to consider.
The session concluded with pizza for dinner and a conversation about goal-setting and career exploration. Linda Leslie, a DTS mentor, shared her journey in the IT field, reassuring students that it’s okay for career goals to evolve over time and that finding one’s passion can happen at any stage of life.
Looking ahead, Grant Chapel, a Hughes alumnus and DTS student worker, will lead the next session—an exciting evening of game design—on Thursday, October 24th, at the eSports Lab in the 1819 Innovation Hub.
We invite anyone interested in learning more or supporting the ShareIT program to join us for these dynamic Thursday workshops. Special thanks to Anisa, Maurice, and Jane for participating in the makerspace session.
For more information about the ShareIT program, or to get involved, please contact us at dtsdei@ucmail.uc.edu