Set to open formally to the public June 8th, the Advanced Manufacturing & Robotics Center (AMRoC) Fab Lab is a program of the nonprofit Foundation for Community Driven Innovation (FCDI), whose mission is to support academic achievement, economic development and the spirit of innovation through active learning experiences. AMRoC is a public Fab Lab, part of a network of 1600 Fab Labs around the world, and dedicated to building community capacity, empowering individuals through creative self-expression and bridging the manufacturing and industry talent gap through project-based engineering education and training.
In development for over three years, AMRoC was made possible with the support of University Mall and RD Management, the mall owners; seeded with an Argosy Foundation grant, and further supported by the Lightning Foundation, SOFWERX and in partnership with companies and organizations including SOFWERX, Sensible Micro, Ultimate 3D Printers, US Auto Training, eSmart Recycling, PLuGHiTz Live and the Tampa-Hillsborough Public Library Cooperative.
AMRoC occupies 7500 sq. ft. of space in a former sportswear store at University Mall and is part of an extensive transformation of the Mall into a mixed use city center anchoring the Uptown Tampa district. AMRoC will provide “K-to-Gray” programming for people of all ages to explore science, technology, engineering, manufacturing and related education and career training and certification opportunities.
Additionally, the facility provides access to tools like 3D printers, hand and power tools, laser cutter and more. Youth in FIRST robotics teams and other STEM competition programs can design, build, practice and meet at AMRoC Fab Lab and local entrepreneurs can access rapid prototyping, micro-manufacturing and consulting services. The Fab Lab also features the only full scale permanent FIRST Robotics Competition field in the state. FCDI will also provide professional development for educators, manufacturers, youth and adult program facilitators, as well as workshops, classes and special events serving families and individuals with DIY projects and programs.
On tap for this summer:
First Fridays at the Fab Lab Meetups – starting June 7
SE G1 Automotive Repair Certification Test Prep course ages 16+ – starting June 8
ASCII Warriors Programming Club for high school and college students – starting June 12
STEAM Story Time for early elementary students, with Joiner Library – June 20
Entrepreneurship Academy for Middle Schoolers – July 5-26 – Register by June 30
Open K-12 recruitment for four youth robotics teams
To celebrate the opening of AMRoC Fab Lab, FCDI will host a week of activities and programs, kicking off with a Meet the Makers Open House June 8th starting at 2pm. Visitors will see and learn about programs and resources for all ages including:
Machine Shop
Electronics
3D Printers
Robotics
DIY Resources & Tools
Computer Lab
Fabrication Services
Entrepreneurship Programs
Build Projects
Professional Development
Product Development Consultation
Certifications
Visit AMROCTampaBay.com for more information, to register for programs and to learn how to get involved