HARRISBURG, PA — Harrisburg University of Science & Technology (HU) is proud to announce the grand opening of the HU Makerspace: a new, hands-on innovation hub and project workshop designed to inspire creativity, experimentation, and collaboration across our campus community.
The Makerspace is a shared learning environment where students, staff, and faculty can explore advanced manufacturing technologies, prototype ideas, and turn curiosity into tangible creations. Whether you’re building for a class project, research initiative, or personal exploration, the HU Makerspace is a place to learn by doing.
What You’ll Find in the Makerspace
The HU Makerspace features a growing suite of advanced manufacturing and fabrication tools, including:
- 3D printers (PLA, PETG, and other materials)
- CNC milling machine
- Electronics workstations (soldering, microcontrollers, sensors)
- 3D scanners
- Hand tools and finishing equipment
(Equipment list subject to expansion as the Makerspace evolves.)
Makerspace Location
The HU Makerspace is located in the UPMC Health Sciences Tower at 222 Chestnut Street, on the second floor, in Room 216.
Access, Safety, and Training
Safety and responsible use are central to the Makerspace experience. All users must complete a required online safety and orientation module and sign up for training or equipment usage before accessing the space or operating equipment. Additional policies and procedures include:
- Equipment-specific training may be required before use.
- Supervision or staff approval may be necessary for certain tools.
- Eye protection, closed-toe shoes, and appropriate attire are required.
- Users are expected to always follow posted safety guidelines.
Once training is complete, the Makerspace is open to students, staff, and faculty for academic purposes, research, and personal projects.
Turn Plastic Bottles Into 3D Printer Filament
We’re also excited to pair innovation with sustainability! As part of the Makerspace launch, we invite the campus community to bring clean, empty PET (1) plastic bottles to be recycled into 3D printer filament for use in the Makerspace. Look for this symbol on bottles:
This initiative helps reduce waste while demonstrating real-world circular manufacturing practices, one upcycled bottle at a time.
Hours of Operation
- Walk-in hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 2:00 PM–4:00 PM
- Additional makerspace access may be scheduled by appointment only.
- Hours may vary during academic breaks or holidays.
Calling All Dreamers, Doers, and Inventors
Harrisburg University has always been a place where dreamers and innovators can shine by forging their own academic and career pathways. The Makerspace embodies the spirit of HU by providing a place for freeform exploration to take place.
Students, staff, and faculty with questions about the HU Makerspace are encouraged to contact Stephanie Lake, Makerspace Director and CEO of Subcomponents Plus, at Makerspace@My.HarrisburgU.edu.
Makerspace FAQs:
Are there any usage costs, material fees, or print limits?
- There is no usage cost to access designated Makerspace equipment or available materials.
- Printing for personal or research projects is permitted at staff discretion.
- Longer prints must be scheduled to run overnight or during off-hours and require prior approval.
Will community partners or alumni have access to the HU Makerspace in the future?
- The Makerspace is currently available to Harrisburg University students, staff, and faculty only.
- Access for community partners is not available at this time.
- We hope to expand access to alumni in the near future.
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ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science & Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, engineering, robotics, nursing, cybersecurity, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link learning and research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, Communications Manager for Harrisburg University of Science & Technology, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100×1724.
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