The Hudson Valley Advanced Manufacturing Center (HVAMC) at The State University of New York at New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) has both much needed acronyms, and a new additive manufacturing superlab. While makerspaces popping up on university campuses are not an uncommon occurrence, the HVAMC is a special case - it has received accreditation from 3D printing giant Stratasys.
The Stratasys MakerBot Additive Research & Teaching lab (SMART Lab) designation denotes the wide array of tools available at the center which opened in June - and the array is wide indeed.
The lab features a number of advanced 3D Printers, including an industrial-grade Objet260 Connex multi-material 3D Printer, a Fortus 400mc Production 3D Printer, two Dimension units, and over 40 MakerBot desktop 3D Printers.
This lab will allow engineering, and design students a space to work on assignments or hone their skills. But the superlab will also be open to students and faculty from other disciplines to get a taste of 3D printing and use the available tools for personal projects. In addition, the lab is available for the non-academic community as well, and offers training for those who need it.
Dan Freedman, dean of the School of Science and Engineering, and director of the HVAMC, noted the impact a space such as this can have on the community. “Our designation as a SMART lab is huge step for the HVAMC. The combination of our unique focus at the interface of art, engineering and science, and the recognition and support by the world's leading manufacturer of 3D printers, will move us to an unparalleled interdisciplinary educational experience, help us support regional businesses, and give our faculty the tools and expertise to do cutting-edge scholarship in art, engineering and design.”
The lab is poised to be at the center of economic growth for the region, attracting new businesses, attention and students to the school. SUNY New Paltz worked with the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation to design programs for the school to use the makerspace, as well as letting the community and local businesses know about the HVAMC.
The school’s efforts were not unnoticed by Gina Scala, director of global marketing for Stratasys Education. “We’re continually impressed with the industry partnerships SUNY New Paltz is engaged in. The investment they have made in industrial-grade additive manufacturing equipment in the SMART Lab, combined with its expert staff, is allowing increased access for all. It’s exciting to see economic development for local industry and academic development collide, creating fireworks of innovation and benefit for all.”
We can expect more universities, colleges and communities to follow suit by opening their own 3D printing labs. If these technological trailblazers begin installing industrial-level facilities, it could even change the way small and medium businesses operate.
Is an education and career in 3D-printing and additive manufacturing for small businesses in your future? If so, look into whether your local college, university or library has makerspace facilities and training programs to brush up on your skills.