About | Fablabncc

About the Fab Lab

FAQ↓

Welcome to the Fab Lab, part of Northampton Community College's new Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in south Bethlehem. Opened in 2009, the Lab has grown from a small wood shop to almost 4000 sq.ft. housing nine different fabrication areas. See history.

The Fab Lab is open to the entire community, and offers instruction across a wide range of fabrication technologies. Schools, businesses, and individuals may use the facility (with proper instruction) to create whatever they can dream up. We usually say that you can build anything that fits through the doors (and sometimes, things that don't).

FAQ

What are the costs?

The Fab Lab offers access to easy-to-use equipment and expert instruction, as well as open-enrollment (noncredit) courses and various credit/certificate programs at a very affordable price. For a small fee, use the facility independently during regular business hours or Open Lab hours. Please refer to the fee schedule for an outline of the standard Lab costs. For specific class schedules and any questions, contact the Lab.
What is an Open Lab and what are the hours?

The Fab Lab is open for individual use Monday through Thursday 9am to 4pm and Friday from 9am to 12 noon. You can schedule to work in the Lab anytime during the week. Open Lab is off-hours and can include weekends, holidays and nights when the Lab is not being used for classes. These Open Lab hours are scheduled weekly and fees vary, so check the fee schedule or call with questions. To book a time in the lab, call 610-332-8665 or email Amy at arotzell@northampton.edu.
Who uses the Fab Lab?

From teen to senior, novice to skilled, the Lab attracts engineers, artists, artisans, entrepreneurs, musicians, teachers, students and the curious at heart. Looking for a new hobby? Are you an inventor with a great idea? Do you need to acquire the skills to execute? Every level can benefit by our impressive collection of equipment, tools, technology and intellectual resources.
Do I have to know how to use the equipment to access the Lab?

No. Experienced staff are on hand to train the novice on our equipment and state-of-the-art technologies. Simply call or visit the Lab to schedule one-on-one instruction or inquire about one of our 50-plus courses.
I know how to use the equipment. Can I book time on a machine?

Yes. A member of our staff will work with you initially to ensure you are familiar with the equipment and our safety procedures. After that, you are free to book and use the equipment for a small hourly fee.
Do you offer consulting services for inventors and entrepreneurs?

Yes. Contract our Lab staff for technical support for business and prototyping projects. Or, if you are an entrepreneur, we’ll provide resources and contacts to local agencies and organizations to help you get your idea off the ground.
Does the Fab Lab host team building events?

Yes, The Fab Lab offers exceptional, custom-crafted team-building events, with modules developed to achieve identified goals. Small groups are provided with controlled, project-based experiences that require participants to work together toward a common goal. Each individual finds gratification by contributing to the team effort while working with a partner to produce a tangible product. It boosts confidence and ultimately improves productivity ... all while having fun!