Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1474353
EXPERIMENT. CREATE. FABRICATE. IDEATE. BRAINSTORM. PROTOTYPE. S By Karen Rice Suppose you have a great idea for an invention that will change the world, but you need a 3D printer to make a prototype. Or, you want to apply for a new job or change careers but need some skills. Maybe you just want to learn something new and have some fun. You'll find the help you need at the Northwest Arkansas Fab Lab, a 5,000 square foot "maker" space located on the lower level of the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce headquarters downtown. "The idea and dream of the Fab Lab is to give access to tools and resources not readily available to individuals in the area," explained Steve Clark, President and CEO of the Chamber. "This includes students of all ages, educators, creators, entrepreneurs, makers, artists, designers, engineers, tinkerers and hobbyists." It's a community resource with open access to the public as well as scheduled classes and programs. It's a place for people and projects to be mentored and share creativity. What is a Fab Lab anyway? It's short for Digital Fabrication Laboratory, and it's a small-scale workshop where anyone can make (almost) anything, using an array of cutting-edge tools, technology and materials. "It's all about what's known as the design thinking process, which involves new ways of thinking about manufacturing, innovation, design and problem solving," Clark further explained. "If you can dream it, you can do it here." Want to learn robotics? Brainstorm a project? Find a solution? Make a prototype with a 3D printer? Bind a book? Do laser engraving? At the Fab Lab, you'll find everything you need to help make dreams come true, create a masterpiece, launch a career, even increase your employability. The Fab Lab contains everything from sewing machines to high-tech tools like computer-controlled routers, milling machines, shop tools, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, 3D printers, desktop computers, software and more. 8