FOSTERING CREATIVITY and innovation at the Ateneo, the Eugenio Lopez Jr. Makerspace—Areté’s fabrication laboratory—is a haven for curious minds and sprouting creators. This state-of-the-art facility, equipped with groundbreaking technology like 3D printers, laser cutters, and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines, propels individuals to transform their ingenious ideas into tangible realities.
As part of the Ateneo’s goal to render accessible digital technology, the Makerspace provides an outlet for ambitious initiatives by allowing individuals to explore and improve their ideas using various tools and technologies. The facility also provides an environment where people can think about what their creations might become in the future, forging responsible and holistic innovation.
Making a different mind
The Makerspace, much like the Areté Ateneo, was built on the idea of craftsmanship and technological development, according to Executive Director Estelle Ladrido, PhD. When the Areté first opened in 2018, it lacked a facility for fabrication and creation—something that the Makerspace aimed to resolve.
“Many times the enemy of innovation is the fear of failing. However, we understand that this kind of creation often feels inaccessible. The idea was a space for iterative solutions because often when you use a space like this, [you] usually never get it right the first time,” Ladrido shared.
When it comes to improvements to the Makerspace’s equipment and technology, Ladrido affirmed that they streamline their facilities with the interests and suggestions of Makerspace users in mind.
“For now, we don’t just take in technology just because it’s there [b]ut in consideration what [are the] needs of our stakeholders. We keep improving the kind of material the machines we have here,” she explained.
Within the Makerspace facility, most of the equipment primarily employs digital manufacturing and computer-aided technology, making it time and cost-effective. Among the common services it offers include the laser cutting and engraving of wood and acrylic at low costs, as well as large format printing of signages and posters for promotions.
For rapid prototyping and customization, the fabrication laboratory accommodates Fused Deposition Modeling 3D Printing projects that involve plastic components with intricate structures. They also provide CNC milling services to create accurate and uniform wooden products over multiple iterations. Additionally, they house a Desktop Thermoforming Machine, which produces both low-fidelity and durable plastic molds and parts with heat and vacuum pressure.
Molding innovation
To help students navigate the intricacies of each machine and translate their visions into reality, Makerspace Operations Officer Isabelle Arellano serves not only as a technician but also as a mentor.
For students to become competent innovators, Arellano shared that she guides them in operating both the software and machine involved in their projects to promote independence.
Arellano added that the Makerspace has been actively working to increase its visibility. One of their initiatives is the creative camp, Ludocracy: The Art and Science of Board Game Design, where interns help equip kids with the knowledge and skills needed to craft their own original board games.
Former Makerspace intern Rad Dayupay (4 BS MIS) recalled experiencing the Makerspace’s transformative power firsthand. “A lot of kids made thoughtful games [that] were really enjoyable [and] could possibly be sold in stores. A cool breakthrough [was made] out of the Makerspace and the kid’s game won’t be as fun if it weren’t made in the Makerspace,” she mentioned.
While the Makerspace is primarily used for product development, it also encourages one’s craftsmanship. Isaac Muncal (4 BS CS), another intern, discovered how the Makerspace could empower personal artistry. He shared how the experience of learning 3D printing and laser cutting shifted his perspective, opening his eyes to the possibilities of creating tangible objects from digital designs.
“In our course, I couldn’t use [it] properly and tangibly. [But] I’m really into handicrafts. May mga bumibili ng bagay [dati] na [ngayon, ginagawa] na lang [n]ila (Some choose to create their own things instead of buying it),” Muncal stated.
While the Makerspace is a valuable resource for students across disciplines, it also presents unique challenges. Arellano discussed how the learning curve for working within the innovation space can be steep, as complicated machines and software intimidate most of the students. “How to use the software is a huge challenge, especially for someone who just wants to get something done,” she expressed.
Despite this, she and her team are working toward easing the difficulty. “[W]e’re constantly exploring ways to make the tools more accessible, such as offering regular workshops and providing personalized guidance to first-time users,” Arellano affirmed.
These workshops, often free of charge, cover a range of topics—from basic laser cutter operation to more advanced techniques like 3D modeling software and vacuum forming.
Engraving connections
Through these, the potential for interdisciplinary collaborations is vast. With Areté’s goal to facilitate research and development, the Eduardo J Aboitiz Sandbox Programs often makes use of the Makerspace, primarily for product-based projects. These programs include access to advanced technologies, mentorship, and a structured environment for innovation with priority access to the Makerspace.
As part of the Makerspace and the Sandbox collaborations, Ladrido recalls a robotics project for archaeological discoveries which involves both sociology and electronics. Another project produced a 3D-printed heart valve, arising from the fields of medicine and engineering. “[Those working at the Sandbox projects] are teams that make use of [the] space and they’re devising solutions to wicked problems [such as] sustainability, climate change, teaching, and inequalities,” she explained.
While the Makerspace is known for breakthroughs and ingenuity, it also plays an influential role in fostering a sense of community within the Ateneo. “The physical space itself is welcoming,” Dayupay observes. “It invites people to [a] creative space to create, design, and build.”
Beyond this physical presence, Arellano emphasizes the importance of a supportive environment. “We want students to feel comfortable asking questions and exploring their ideas without fear of judgment,” she shares.
With this, Ladrido also remarks on the space’s accessibility. “Anyone can use it. You can actually just walk in here. It’s here for students, faculty, and even people outside,” she reiterated.
Arellano also revealed that the Makerspace has plans to expand its internship programs, improve student engagement, and integrate with the academic curricula.
The Makerspace contributes to the University’s investigative design space by providing students, faculty, and the broader community with tools and resources that were once limited to specialized fields. Sharing this sentiment, Ladrido and Arellano encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to innovate and turn their ideas into tangible outcomes, regardless of their technical expertise.Beyond its technical prowess, the Makerspace fosters a vibrant community of creators, driving collaboration, experimentation, and a spirit of “learning by doing.” It attests to the power of magis when hands-on experience and the transformative potential of technology are placed within the reach of curious minds.
