A space for the greater Babson community to gather, create and let ideas take shape.
The Weissman Foundry was established in 2018 as “a dedicated space where (students) can take their ideas and transform them into physical prototypes and products. Where (students) can get access to tools, dig in on projects, be messy and work continuously any time of day or night.”
AET Labs was glad to be a part of this project from the planning stages forward, as we collaborated with construction management firm Windover, architect William Rawn Associates, and the Foundry team to design a custom Fab Lab tech solution. We’re thrilled to see the buzz around this community space and see how students adopt these tools into creating next-level projects.
Design a far-sighted Fab Lab technology scheme in coordination with admins and architects.
We were tasked with creating a technology plan for the Weissman Foundry planning team that included easy-to-use technology for students, while coordinating with architects for proper ventilation and electrical systems, training for staff, and on-going technical support.
Proactive planning with design teams to build a Fab Lab that is safe and accessible to all students.
Collaborating with architects and contractors, we identified potential pain points in infrastructure and consulted on electrical and ventilation solutions needed to run Fab Lab equipment smoothly and safely. We supplied training for Foundry staff on all machines, and created a technical support plan that includes ongoing maintenance to keep the lab running continuously and innovation moving forward.
Sample of the proposed makerspace equipment areas – Additionally, AET included a complete mechanical, electrical and plumbing schedule
Fabrication tools to support and accelerate innovation.
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- Epilog FusionPro Laser
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- Stratasys F270 FDM 3D Printer
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- Makerbot Replicator+ 3D Printer
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- Graphtec Vinyl Cutter
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- Jet Woodworking Equipment
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- GMI Makerspace Furniture
“When we received an advanced manufacturing grant from Governor Baker, AET was a great resource to guide us through the process of design, equipment selection, and installation. Our program is now equipped with equipment that will provide our students with cutting edge technology which will prepare them for college and career readiness.”
AET Labs provides excellent sales and service: I can call them anytime I need assistance. They are my best source for equipment: no pressure, affordable and innovative solutions, flexibility, excellent follow through. The bottom line is that AET is just a great company to work with.
In 13 years of teaching, I have not found a better vendor to work with. They do not try to oversell and they back up their sales with excellent service.
“AET Labs has been our savior in creating the Blackstone Valley Education Hub (BV Ed Hub)! The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce was fortunate enough to receive a large Work Skills Capital Grant from the MA Department of Higher Ed to create fabrication, design and computer labs. AET Labs provided us with the expertise and know-how we needed to successfully reach our goals. . . At the end of the project we got rave reviews from the community, our students, teachers, schools and our legislators.”
