Fab Lab Tulsa

Education: The K-20 education program at Fab Lab Tulsa enables educators to introduce and illustrate a variety of engineering disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, chemical, and structural engineering, as well as computer science, math, and art. Additionally, students learn how to envision, design, build, test and refine their ideas through hands-on experience with 2D and 3D design softwareand digital fabrication tools. When using technology in education, the key is to enhance the concepts being taught. Educational programs at Fab Lab Tulsa focus on building skills in core subjects, such as math and science, as well as applied problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity, all of which are critically important in the modern economy.

Business: Fab Lab Tulsa is a hub for inventors and provides entrepreneurs and businesses with a high-quality, low-cost, low-risk method of rapid prototyping and micro-manufacturing new products. The objective is to foster entrepreneurship and economic development, as well as encourage start-up companies to grow both within and beyond the lab. Business and industry members receive extensive technical assistance in using lab equipment and software design applications, as well as access to programs that support their legal and intellectual property needs.

Workforce: Manufacturing is undergoing a digital transformation that is changing the future of work with smart manufacturing that relies on high-tech systems. The workforce program at Fab Lab Tulsa teaches design thinking and digital fabrication skills targeted at recent high school graduates who are not headed to college and adults seeking to reskill and upskill to meet the rapidly changing environment of industrial digitalization. The program covers the topics of 3D printing, precision laser cutting, CNC milling and electronics, with hands-on learning utilizing a project-based approach where students document their work and build a digital online resume and portfolio to share with future employers.