Our Wang Innovation Center (shorthand: The WIC) is more than a makerspace or makersystem, where you might find a computer lab, a few 3-D printers or a CNC machine. The WIC is 6,000 square feet of space, fully equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and software, enough to impress any architect, engineer or designer.
Plan. Prototype. Build.
Structurally, the WIC is divided into three creative spaces with specific functions — one to imagine and plan, one to prototype and one to build. In the multimedia/design space, students can concept and plan a project or idea. In the fabrication area, prototyping begins and ideas come to life. The final space, the workshop or “dirty” space, is where prototypes can be made into final products with a large-scale wood and metal shop.
Where There’s A WIC, There’s A Way!
Since opening in 2016, the WIC has become a popular fixture on campus and if you pop into the space today, you'll find all kinds of activity.
A class on artificial intelligence and machine learning, a student cutting out the fabric to sew her own Halloween costume, another printing their own chocolate flower to add to their chocolate bouquet, and a group of budding entrepreneurs at the garment printer running off custom-designed t-shirts.
Project Highlights
The joy of a space like this is seeing what our students can cook up. Will they design a very sleek bench in VCarve and use the CNC router to bring it to life? Will they print a custom phone holder in the shape of a dog? Will they print a skateboard with their face on it? Will they make a clock in the shape of a shoe? Yes, yes and yes — in our experience.
Meet The Team
Visit The WIC
The WIC is open 59 hours per week to serve the Western Reserve Academy community with staff members available to assist.
Hours
When School Is In Session:
- Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
- Open on select Sundays.
When School Is Not Session:
- Monday - Friday : 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed