What is Fablab
Fab Lab is the educational outreach component of MIT’s Center for Bits and Atoms (CBA), an extension of its research into digital fabrication and computation. A Fab Lab is a technical prototyping platform for innovation and invention, providing stimulus for local entrepreneurship. A Fab Lab is also a platform for learning and innovation: a place to play, to create, to learn, to mentor, and to invent.

Community
As a community center, Fab Lab Omaha is a resource for local technology enthusiasts who span a broad spectrum from hobbyist and tinkerers, to artist and designers, to engineers and scientists. Individual members with creative ideas bring them to fruition with the labs equipment and tools. Programming for individual members includes entry-level and advanced classes to train them in the various skills required to use the facility and equipment without supervision.

Business
Fab Lab Omaha is a hub for inventors and provides entrepreneurs and businesses with a high-quality, low-cost, low-risk method of rapid prototyping new products. The objective is to foster entrepreneurship and economic development, and encourage start-up companies to grow beyond rather than within the lab. Business and industry members receive extensive technical assistance in using lab equipment and programming software applications.

Education
The education program at Fab Lab Omaha enables educators to introduce and illustrate a variety of engineering disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, chemical and structural engineering, as well as computer science, math and art. Additionally, students learn how to envision, design, build, test and refine their ideas through hands-on experience with 2D and 3D design software and digital fabrication tools. When using technology in education, the key is to enhance the concepts being taught.