The Makerspace

The Makerspace

Learning Through Hands-On Design

Are you looking for state-of-the-art facilities that will foster your physical and digital creations? If so, you’re in luck! Ignite is home to not just one, but two hubs for bringing your ideas to reality - and they’re completely free for students to use.

A room filled with 3D printers, large tables, hand tools, and other physical creation equipment.

The Dorf Makerspace

Located on the first floor of the ERC, the Dorf Makerspace is the domain for all kinds of physical design! Get ready to prototype your ideas with 3D printers, laser engravers, glass fusion technology, vinyl heat presses, soldering equipment, and so much more.

The space for makers.

The Makers' Loft

Is digital content creation and your forte? Found on the ERC’s second floor, the Makers’ Loft features digital cameras, editing software, VR equipment, sewing machines, commercial-grade drones, and more “clean making” technology!

Igniting Student Experiences

Each year, Clarkson’s most talented and versatile students have the chance to become Maker Mentors: student workers who manage both Makerspace facilities, engage with visitors, and demonstrate a distinct passion for creativity through all that they do.

When Lindsay McCarthy (AeroE ‘27) became a Maker Mentor in the summer of 2024, she knew that it was the perfect opportunity to advance her academic and extracurricular pursuits in a distinctly Clarkson way. A member of the Honors Program, she was no stranger to innovation and continued achievement.

Within months of joining the Ignite family, Lindsay had become the go-to expert on all things glass fusion and sticker-making. Through projects with visiting students, fellow Maker Mentors, and other members of the Clarkson community, her leadership skills had an impact that mattered.

For Maker Mentors, working at the Makerspace isn’t just about having a part-time job; it’s also an exciting opportunity for personal growth, real-world experience, and unique personal expression. No Maker Mentor is the same, but each and every one is the ideal definition of what Clarkson students represent.

Lindsay’s favorite part of working for Ignite? Becoming part of “an incredible community of innovators and lifelong friends.”

Excellence in Leadership

It’s hard to find Santino Martinelli (MechE / AeroE ‘25, center in picture) without a drone in hand. Whether studying in class, exploring the North Country, or hanging out with friends, drones are always nearby - and for good reason. You never know when the perfect moment to capture something amazing will arise!

For Santino, drones are more than a hobby; they’re a powerful way to channel his passion and ambitions in the world of Aerospace Engineering. So when the opportunity arose to create a “Learn to Fly” drone program in the Makerspace, there was no doubt that he was the perfect person to lead the charge.

Now the Lead Mentor for the Makers’ Loft, Santino has become a trusted guide and role model for digitally-inclined students. From advice on content creation to technical drone expertise, his skills and experience have made a lasting impact on the Clarkson community and the Makerspace as a whole.

This journey is just one of many inspiring stories that Ignite is proud to share. Through academic excellence and unwavering leadership, Maker Mentors consistently make dynamic and meaningful contributions across the entire Clarkson campus. Perhaps you will be the next to join this versatile community.

Santino’s thoughts on his experience with the Makerspace? “Over the past few years, I’ve had the time of my life with Ignite. I’ll miss that time when I’m gone.”

Pathways to the Makerspace

Two students in a lab setting.

Weekly Workshops

Don’t worry if you don’t know a particular form of making - weekly workshops at the Makerspace will teach you everything you’ll want to learn.

A 3D printing set up.

Free 3D Printing

Who doesn’t like free items? As long as they’re safe and appropriate, you can print 3D models to your heart’s content, at zero cost. Start developing your ideas now!
 

Hands holding a piece of equipment.

Course Visits

It won’t be surprising if a course ends up in the Makerspace during a lecture. What better way to make your hands-on project is there?

A Clarkson University sticker.

Custom Gifts

For on-campus clubs and organizations, customized merch is only an email away! CUSTOM Lab, a student-run business within Ignite, is here for your every need.
 

A Clarkson leader talks with a student.

Industry Recognition

During Career Fairs, it’s common to see industry veterans and company representatives in the Makerspace, searching for interns and new hires.

 

University alumni showing off products.

Alumni Connections

Current students aren’t the only ones who can use the Makerspace! Alumni are always encouraged to return during special events and whenever they’d like.

Learn More About Ignite

What’s next for Ignite? A bright future filled with innovation, entrepreneurship, and all things creativity. Stay tuned!