Welcome to the Innovation Shop
The Innovation Shop is an exciting space where engineering students can apply their knowledge, work on real-world projects, and gain hands-on experience with advanced tools and machinery. To ensure the safety of all users and the efficiency of our operations, all students must complete a training and orientation program before gaining access to the shop.
Steps to Access the Innovation Shop
- Complete Online Training Modules on HuskyCT
All students are required to complete our online training modules to gain access to the Innovation Shop, these modules cover:- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Training: Learn the proper use of safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and appropriate attire for working in the shop. This ensures that you are protected from potential hazards in the shop environment.
- Safe Practices in the Shop Environment: Learn the general safety protocols for working in a machine shop, including how to navigate shared spaces, prevent accidents, and maintain a clean and organized workstation. Emergency response procedures will also be covered, including how to use fire extinguishers, operate emergency stop buttons on machines, and how to react in case of accidents or injuries.
- Proper Use of Hand and Power Tools: Understand the correct and efficient usage of essential tools such as hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, drills, saws, and other power tools. This training will ensure that you operate tools safely and avoid damage to materials or injuries to yourself and others.
- Equipment-Specific Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the operating procedures and safety precautions for each piece of machinery in the Innovation Shop. This includes learning how to properly set up, operate, and shut down equipment like mills, lathes, 3D printers, and more.
- Efficient Workflow Methods: Learn best practices for managing your time and resources in the shop, including how to organize your project materials, plan your tasks, and collaborate with other students and staff effectively. These methods will help you complete your projects more efficiently while maintaining high-quality work.
You can access the training modules via our HuskyCT platform. Click here – Innovation Shop
Attend In-Person Orientation
After completing the PPE training module, the bookings page for scheduling a In-person orientation will be available on HuskyCT. During this session, you will:- Familiarize Yourself with the Layout of the Innovation Shop: Get a tour of the shop to understand where equipment, materials, safety stations, and emergency exits are located, as well as the designated work areas for specific tasks.
- Meet Our Staff and Understand the Safety and Emergency Protocols: Meet the experienced shop staff who will support you during your projects. In addition to general safety procedures, you will learn emergency response steps such as who to notify, location of first aid, and how to use the emergency communication systems in case of an accident or injure.
- Learn About the Check-In Process and Equipment Booking System: Understand how to check in when you arrive at the shop, how to reserve equipment, and the procedures for using and returning tools. This ensures smooth operations and reduces wait times for equipment.
Please note: The minimum requirements to be in the equipment space(regardless of if you’re using equipment) is successful completion of PPE training and attending the Shop Orientation.
Ready to Get Started?
You can access the training modules via our HuskyCT platform. Click here – Innovation Shop
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to our team at ishop@uconn.edu