Five students work together in a campus makerspace, gathered around a wooden table with laptops, wires, and electronic components. One student types on a laptop while others watch and discuss, and more students use equipment in the background. Large windows line the wall, bringing natural light into the lab setting.

Explore Lab Makerspace

Whether you're designing a class project, learning a new skill, or developing a personal passion, St. Lawrence University's Explore Lab offers the perfect blend of cutting‑edge equipment and supportive learning resources.

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  2. Math, Computer Science, and Statistics Department
  3. Explore Lab Makerspace

A Hub for Creativity, Innovation, and Hands‑On Learning

The Explore Lab Makerspace is where ideas take shape—literally. 

Designed as a collaborative, dynamic environment for students, faculty, and staff, this on‑campus makerspace gives creators of all experience levels the tools, space, and support they need to experiment, build, prototype, and bring concepts to life.

Why the Explore Lab Matters

Hands‑on learning is one of the most powerful ways to understand concepts, build confidence, and develop real‑world skills. 

The Explore Lab Makerspace supports this mission by:

  • Empowering students to take ownership of their learning
  • Encouraging interdisciplinary exploration
  • Preparing users for careers in STEM, design, and beyond
  • Providing access to tools and training that spark innovation

Whether you’re crafting your first 3D model, repairing an electronic device, or building a complex prototype for research, the Explore Lab is here to help you think, create, and innovate.

Explore Lab Key Features

From digital design to hands-on building, each feature helps turn ideas into real-world projects. Here’s a quick look at the tools you can use to create and learn.
Three people lean in to examine a computer monitor displaying a bright orange 3D-printed lattice structure inside a lab with workbenches and equipment.

3D Printing Stations

From small prototypes to complex multi‑piece models, our fleet of 3D printers makes it easy to turn digital designs into physical objects. You can can rapidly test ideas and iterate on designs while building skills in additive manufacturing.

Close-up of hands holding a small etched circuit board and a wooden mechanical assembly with gears, bolts, and colorful wires attached.

Soldering & Electronics Tools

For aspiring engineers and hobbyists. Whether you're building a custom gadget or learning the basics of soldering, the electronics stations offer everything needed to tinker with circuits, microcontrollers, and devices. 

Software Training & Digital Tools

Technology doesn’t stop at hardware. The Explore Lab provides access to essential design and fabrication software—along with training to help you master it. Topics include:

  • 3D modeling
  • Laser cutter design workflows
  • Circuit design
  • Creative software for digital art and fabrication
  • And more

Three people stand around a laser cutter in a makerspace, looking down at a project in progress, with wood pieces and tools arranged on nearby tables.

Laser Cutters

Precise, fast, and incredibly versatile, our laser cutters allow users to cut, engrave, and etch a wide range of materials—from acrylics and cardboard to wood and leather. They’re ideal for artwork, engineering models, jewelry, signage, and more.

Two people stand at a workbench in a makerspace, discussing colorful 3D-printed prototypes, molds, and sample pieces spread out on the table.

Hand Tools & Prototyping Supplies

The makerspace includes a robust selection of tools for assembly, measurement, crafting, and prototyping. You’ll find what you need to refine a design or build something from scratch right within arm’s reach.

Professors, parents, and college students stand around round tables in a classroom, talking in small groups. A professor with a white beard sits in a wheelchair holding a water bottle while speaking with three college students. Other professors, parents, and college students chat in the background near tables, chairs, and posters on the walls.

A Community of Makers

The Explore Lab thrives because of its community. Students from engineering, chemistry, math, government, art, and countless other areas come together to share ideas, learn from one another, and discover something new. 

Explore Lab Projects

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Two students stand in a lab space, examining electronic components and a small circuit board. One student holds a patterned board while the other holds a wired device, and both look down at the materials with focused expressions. Shelving and equipment are visible behind them, suggesting a hands-on learning environment at Saint Lawrence University.

Making an Enigma Machine: Tye Royal '25

During a summer fellowship, Tye collaborated with Assistant Professor Gabriel Dorfsman-Hopkins to construct a replica of a German "Enigma" machine, a state-of-the-art mechanical encryption machine used by the Germans during World War II to send secret messages.

A drone with four propellers sits on a wooden lab table in a classroom. Two instructors stand nearby, talking and smiling, with posters and equipment visible on the walls behind them. A screen in the background displays information about an Explore Makers session.

Experience the Explore Lab

Want to bring your creative vision to life? Interested in touring the space? Have an idea, but you're not sure where to start? We're happy to answer your questions and show you what makes the Explore Lab a unique makerspace.

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