Rose-Hulman MakerLab Provides Tools for Innovation
Thursday, August 13, 2026
MakerLab enables students to explore a range of equipment and creation processes to pursue personal projects.
In the Rose-Hulman MakerLab, the only limits to learning are students' imaginations. Nestled within the Kremer Innovation Center, MakerLab — led by a small leadership team — enables students to tinker with projects of their choosing, exploring a range of creation processes, including laser cutting, resin printing, CNC engraving, waterjet cutting, and 3D printing. MakerLab also provides access to hand tools, electronics instruments, sewing equipment, and vinyl studio materials.
Open to all Rose-Hulman students, the MakerLab provides safety training sessions on each of its machines and is perpetually driving student innovation forward. The team provides weekly classes and certifications to help students, regardless of technical background, feel comfortable using the equipment. Students work on an array of projects from robotics to jewelry to costumes to vintage tool restoration.
"MakerLab was given a chance to reinvent itself this past year as new leadership brought updates, new equipment, and opportunities for students," said Owen Chaffin, a senior engineering design major who serves as MakerLab's vice president and lab manager.
Those updates include dazzling new machinery to help students pursue their passions. The organization expanded its 3D printing capabilities with new models and introduced a designated textile area.
MakerLab also acquired a new Axiom Iconic 8 CNC router and will provide trainings and classes with the machine during the fall quarter.
"This small but mighty team is committed to serving over 400 members, training them on a diverse range of equipment and maintaining a space that is constantly evolving," said Chaffin. "The mission remains the same: to give students a place to work on personal projects, learn new skills, and do cool things."
Open to all Rose-Hulman students, the MakerLab provides safety training sessions on each of its machines and is perpetually driving student innovation forward. The team provides weekly classes and certifications to help students, regardless of technical background, feel comfortable using the equipment. Students work on an array of projects from robotics to jewelry to costumes to vintage tool restoration.
"MakerLab was given a chance to reinvent itself this past year as new leadership brought updates, new equipment, and opportunities for students," said Owen Chaffin, a senior engineering design major who serves as MakerLab's vice president and lab manager.
Those updates include dazzling new machinery to help students pursue their passions. The organization expanded its 3D printing capabilities with new models and introduced a designated textile area.
MakerLab also acquired a new Axiom Iconic 8 CNC router and will provide trainings and classes with the machine during the fall quarter.
"This small but mighty team is committed to serving over 400 members, training them on a diverse range of equipment and maintaining a space that is constantly evolving," said Chaffin. "The mission remains the same: to give students a place to work on personal projects, learn new skills, and do cool things."