First Time at FUSE Makerspace
What is a Makerspace?
A makerspace is a collaborative workspace where people come together to share resources, knowledge, and work on projects. These spaces are equipped with various equipment and materials, from traditional hand tools to advanced technology like 3D printers and laser cutters.
FUSE Makerspace is more than just a workshop or classroom— it’s a space for ideas to come to life. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, work on a project, or explore your creativity, FUSE Makerspace offers the tools, resources, and community you need to succeed.
Getting Started at FUSE Makerspace
FUSE Makerspace has hundreds of tools and pieces of equipment that are divided into about 20 shop areas. At FUSE, we hold everyone who uses our shop areas to high standards for safety and behavior— this includes staff, members, and guests.
STEP 1
Review FUSE Policies and Sign the Waiver
All who use our space are required to review and submit an online waiver, which also has a full, detailed list of FUSE Makerspace policies, including information on:
- Safety guidelines for space and equipment,
- Clothing and personal protective equipment,
- Age restrictions,
- Accessibility and service animals,
- Refund policy,
- Acceptable projects and material use,
- And more.
STEP 2
Complete Your Operations and Safety Training
All makers need to complete the corresponding ‘Intro to’ workshop for the equipment they wish to use. We refer to these introductory workshops as ‘Operations and Safety Trainings.’
If you are already experienced in using a particular set of equipment, you may not need to take the Operations and Safety Training. Please complete our FUSE Test Out Request form to schedule a qualification assessment with a FUSE staff member.
FUSE also offers credit for prior learning for people who have taken relevant classes at CNM and other select institutions. For example, if you’ve taken CNM’s Carpentry Fundamentals, you don’t need to take FUSE’s Intro to Woodshop or complete a qualification assessment. To see if your previous training qualifies for credit, please email your transcript to [email protected].
STEP 3
Continue Learning in a Workshop
Our workshops are open to everyone— no membership required— and are tailored for beginners. In addition to ‘Intro to’ / Operations and Safety Trainings, we offer a handful of advanced and specialty workshops for those who would like to expand their equipment skills and techniques.
STEP 4
Start Your Membership
FUSE Makerspace offers flexible membership plans, ranging from weekly options for short-term projects to annual memberships that provide round-the-clock access for small teams. Our memberships grant you access to a wide range of equipment, computers, and software. Members also benefit from basic assistance from experienced and passionate FUSE Shop Technicians.
STEP 5
Book Time with Our Equipment
Once you have a membership at FUSE Makerspace, you gain access to our Equipment Booking webpage and can reserve time with the equipment, tools, and software on which you’ve been trained.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions or need additional information, please email [email protected] or call us at (505) 224-3873