The Rist Family Foundation Makerspace

Where Concepts Become Creations!

The Rist Family Foundation Makerspace at FGCU is a dynamic hub for innovation where bold ideas and vision come to life. Located in Lucas Hall, this state-of-the-art facility supports every stage of the creative and entrepreneurial process, from initial concept and design to fabrication, refinement, packaging, and shipping. With a diverse range of tools, equipment, and technologies, the Makerspace empowers students and entrepreneurs to transform their vision into real products and ventures, all within a collaborative, innovation-driven environment.

ENROLL IN SAFETY TRAININGMAKERSPACE CHECK-INLog Service HoursSHARE YOUR FEEDBACK

Makerspace Impact at a Glance

10

Distinct Courses Supported

456

Service-Learning Hours Earned

14

Campus Programs & Units Served

* Data reflects ongoing Makerspace operations since the Fall 2025 semester.

From Idea to Action: Getting Started Step by Step

Getting access to the Rist Family Foundation Makerspace is simple. Follow the steps below to get up and running.

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

The Makerspace is available to students and participants affiliated with the Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship at Florida Gulf Coast University.

Eligible users include:

• • • DKSOE undergraduate and graduate students
    • Entrepreneurship minor students
    • Rist Family Foundation Institute for Entrepreneurship Programs and Competition Participants, and approved student organizations,

If you’re unsure about eligibility, contact the Entrepreneurship Lab Manager before completing training.

DKSOE Programs

Step 2: Complete Lab Safety Training

All users must complete the DKSOE Lab Safety Training prior to using the Makerspace.

• • • Training is delivered through Canvas.

    • Covers general lab safety, equipment awareness, and space expectations

    • Some equipment may require additional, tiered training before use

Completion of safety training is required before use of the Makerspace is approved.

ENROLL IN SAFETY TRAINING

Step 3: Check In & Create

When you arrive at the Makerspace:

• • • Check in using the Makerspace sign-in link.
    • Get support from staff or student assistants as needed.
    • Bring your idea, files, and materials and start building.

All projects created in the Makerspace belong to you.

MAKERSPACE CHECK-IN

Step 4: Share Your Feedback

After using the Makerspace, you may be invited to share feedback about your experience.

• • • Your input helps improve equipment access, training, and overall operations.
    • Feedback may include how you used the space, what you created, and suggestions for supplies or equipment that could improve the Makerspace.

Sharing feedback is optional but encouraged.

SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK

What You’ll Find in the Makerspace

From quick prototypes to polished products, the Makerspace opens the door to an incredible range of projects. Students use its tools to design merchandise, build product mock-ups, create art and signage, develop packaging, and even prepare items for commerce. Whether it’s experimenting with simple models, crafting functional prototypes, or producing market-ready goods, the space makes it possible to turn creative concepts into tangible results.

• Fabrication & Prototyping Tools

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  • Multiple 3D printers

  • Vacuum former

  • Laser engraver

  • CNC machine

• Printing & Production Equipment

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  • Large-format printers

  • Sublimation printer

  • Labeling and shipping tools

• Apparel & Vinyl Tools

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  • Cricut cutting systems

  • Heat presses

  • Embroidery and sewing machines

• Presses & Finishing

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  • Button and grommet presses

  • Laminators and cutters

• Specialty & Crafting Tools

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  • 3D nail printer

  • Arts & crafts materials

• General Tools & Safety Gear

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  • Assorted hand tools

  • PPE (safety glasses, earplugs, etc.)

  • Eye Wash and Fire Extinguishers Safety stations

  • First-aid Kit

Rist Family Foundation Makerspace Staff

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who can use the labs?

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  The Rist Family Foundation Makerspace is open exclusively to Students currently enrolled in a course or degree program offered by the Daveler & Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship (DKSOE) or Participants in co-curricular programs offered by the Rist Family Foundation Institute for Entrepreneurship (RFIE).

• How does training work?

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  Before using equipment, all users must complete general safety training. Additional “tiered” training is required for higher-risk machines. The tiers (Green, Yellow, Red) ensure users are certified at the right level for the tools they want to use. Training is offered through scheduled sessions, workshops, or project-based instruction.

• How can I earn service learning hours in the Makerspace?

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  Students can earn service learning hours by volunteering in the Makerspace through approved roles such as assisting other students, supporting workshops or events, and helping with general Makerspace operations. All volunteers must complete Lab Safety Training, and hours are tracked based on approved activities and shifts. For more information or to get started, contact the Entrepreneurship Lab Manager.

• Are there usage or material costs?

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  Access to the labs is free. Standard consumables (e.g., paper, basic filament) are often provided for training and class projects. Specialized or high-volume materials (e.g., premium filaments, specialty fabrics, large-format media) may require students to bring their own. Costs will be clearly communicated before use.

• Can I store my project in the Makerspace?

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  Space is very limited in the Makerspace so everyone is encouraged to take their projects with them at the end of the day.

• How do students protect intellectual property?

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  Projects developed in the Makerspace or Media Lab belong to the student or team that created them. FGCU does not claim ownership of student intellectual property. Students are encouraged to consult with the Runway Program, faculty mentors, or FGCU’s legal resources for guidance on patents, trademarks, or copyrights.

• How often can students access the equipment?

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  Once training is complete, students may use equipment during posted open hours as often as they like, subject to scheduling availability. Some high-demand equipment may require advance reservations or time limits to ensure fair access.

• Who provides help with equipment or media skills?

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  The labs are staffed by a full-time Lab Manager and trained student assistants who can provide guidance. Help is offered through project-based training, drop-in support, and scheduled workshops. For advanced media or design needs, faculty and peer mentors may also be available.

• Can I bring my own materials?

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  Yes. Students are welcome to bring approved materials for use with Makerspace equipment. However, all materials must be cleared by lab staff to ensure safety and compatibility with the machines.

• What if something breaks or malfunctions?

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  Immediately notify lab staff. Never attempt to repair equipment on your own. Staff will handle maintenance, troubleshooting, or escalate the issue if necessary.

• Do these spaces help launch real businesses?

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  Yes. The Makerspace and Media Lab are part of FGCU’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Students regularly use the labs to prototype products, design branding materials, create pitch decks, and test business ideas. Many ventures supported by the Runway Program and DKSOE courses have been launched using lab resources.