UCLA Makerspace Experience
Makerspace Technician - Empowering student innovation through hands-on technical support
As a Makerspace Technician at UCLA, I work directly with students to help bring their creative projects to life. My role encompasses technical guidance, equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and fostering an environment where innovation thrives through hands-on learning and making.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Guide students through project planning and execution
- Provide hands-on training with fabrication equipment
- Maintain and repair makerspace machinery
- Troubleshoot technical issues and equipment problems
- Support diverse makerspace projects and initiatives
Student Support Approach:
I work collaboratively with students to understand their project goals, discuss the necessary steps for implementation, and provide guidance on tool selection and fabrication techniques. My approach emphasizes learning through doing, safety protocols, and creative problem-solving.
"Helping students transform ideas into reality through hands-on technical mentorship"
I maintain proficiency across a comprehensive range of digital fabrication tools, traditional workshop equipment, and design software, enabling me to support diverse student projects from concept to completion.
Digital Fabrication
- • Laser cutter/engraver operation
- • Filament 3D printers (Prusa & Bamboo Labs)
- • Formlabs 3D printer (SLA)
- • Resin 3D printers
- • Roland vinyl cutter
- • Cameo vinyl cutter
- • Embroidery machine
Workshop Tools
- • Miter saw
- • Band saw
- • Drill press
- • Spindle sander
- • Rotary sander
- • Power tools (various)
- • Hand tools
Specialized Equipment
- • Sewing machine
- • Heat presses
- • Soldering irons & electronics
- • Adobe Illustrator (design)
- • CAD software for 3D modeling
- • Equipment maintenance tools
- • Safety equipment & protocols
Beyond routine maintenance, I actively contribute to makerspace improvements through custom solutions and innovative problem-solving. When equipment breaks or needs modification, I design and fabricate replacement parts and upgrades.
Adjustable Spindle Sander Guard
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This innovative 3D printed assembly design demonstrates advanced mechanical engineering principles through a multi-component system. The project showcases precision manufacturing, assembly tolerances, and functional mechanical design.
Technical Skills:
- • Advanced CAD modeling and assembly design
- • Precision tolerance calculation
- • Multi-part 3D printing strategy
- • Design for manufacturing (DfM)
Miter Saw Hose Adapter
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When the miter saw's dust collection hose adapter broke, I took initiative to design and manufacture a replacement. Using CAD software, I created a custom adapter that restored functionality and improved upon the original design.
Skills Demonstrated:
- • CAD modeling and design optimization
- • 3D printing material selection
- • Mechanical problem analysis
- • Equipment integration
Additional Professional Projects
Motion Capture Marker Tray
Laser cut tray on stackable 3D printed feet. Used to organize motion capture markers and easily apply adhesive.
Ironing Board Cover
When a user left an iron laying on the ironing board, it burned through the fabric and the batting. I recreated both the batting and the fabric ironing board cover.
As part of my role, I lead educational workshops that teach students fundamental skills and techniques across various fabrication methods. These hands-on classes provide structured learning experiences where students can develop confidence with new tools and processes.
Workshop Topics I Teach:
- • Introduction to 3D Printing
- • Introduction to Sewing
- • Introduction to Woodworking
- • Laser Cutting Fundamentals
- • Basic Electronics & Soldering
- • CAD Design Principles
Forever Flowers and 3D Printed Vase Workshop
As a Valentines day workshop, we created flowers out of ribbon and 3D printed vases to give to loved ones.
Cyanotyping Workshop
Cyanotype photography workshops introduce students to historical photographic processes, combining chemistry, art, and design. Students learn to create unique botanical prints using traditional techniques.
Laser Cutting Workshop - Wooden Maze
Students learn laser cutting fundamentals by creating intricate wooden mazes. This project combines digital design skills with precision fabrication techniques, teaching both Adobe Illustrator software and laser cutter operation.
Custom Tote Bag Workshop
Students learn to personalize canvas tote bags using Adobe Illustrator and heat transfer vinyl. This workshop combines digital design with textile arts, teaching both creative expression and technical skills.
Teaching Philosophy: I believe in hands-on learning where students gain confidence through guided practice. Each workshop combines technical instruction with creative exploration, ensuring students leave with both skills and inspiration for future projects.
In addition to my professional responsibilities, I pursue personal creative projects at the makerspace, exploring new techniques, testing equipment capabilities, and developing innovative solutions for personal interests and hobbies.
Handmade Damascus Steel Chefs Knife with a Walnut Handle
I bought a chef's knife blade made from 66 layers of Damascus steel, then handcrafted a walnut wood handle to complete it.
Custom Picture Frame
I found a beautiful piece of wood on a hike. I woodworked the wood into a picture frame.
Handcrafted Charcuterie Board
Custom designed and crafted wooden charcuterie board featuring beautiful natural grain patterns and smooth curved edges, perfect for entertaining.
Family Photo Wooden Puzzle
Laser engraved family photo with laser cut jigsaw shapes into eigth inch wood.