The University of Akron Wayne College continues to expand real-world application experiences for students through the generosity of local supporters. The Wayne County Community Foundation approved a grant to the College from the Carl E. Congdon Jr. and Susanna Congdon McIntyre Memorial Fund to purchase two additional 3D printers for the UAWC3 Lab. The new printers will support multi-material printing including rubber filament, consumer plastics, polystyrene, and other materials.
The WCCF is a not-for-profit charitable community organization established in 1978 to accept contributions, create and administer funds, and make grants for the benefit of the people of the greater Wayne County area. Since 1978, the Foundation has awarded more than $55 million in the form of grants and scholarships from its 380 separate funds.
Known as a Makerspace, the UAWC3 Lab is a hub for students and the community to explore 3D design and digital fabrication using 3D printing and scanning technologies. With the addition of these two printers, the lab will offer a total of six 3D printing machines. Other equipment in the lab includes multiple computers that run the design software, a vinyl cutter, a 3D scanner, a resin printer, a laser engraver, a Dremel tool, a filament extruder, and a plastic grinder.
“We are starting to burst at the seams here in the 3D lab and we couldn’t be happier,” said UAWC3 Lab Manager Tom Hammond. He explained the additional printers will help alleviate the heavy use of existing printers and reduce wait times for equipment. He said this will be especially beneficial during crunch times when projects are due.
“The STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) fields of study are exploding with job opportunities,” said Wayne College Interim Dean Dr. Dan Deckler. “We’re thrilled to be giving students the opportunity to take projects straight out of textbooks and apply that knowledge immediately through hands-on learning in our 3D lab. We wouldn’t be able to do this without the generous support of the community. Their contributions are helping prepare students in Wayne County for jobs here and around the world.”
The UAWC3 Lab is open to the community by appointment. To schedule a tour, please contact Tom at 330-684-8722 or email the lab at tjh1@uakron.edu. Representatives are also available for presentations at civic events.