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All the names changed! What happened?
We updated the names of our offerings to better reflect the intent and purpose behind each one.
- A “Seminar” is now called a training session.
- A “permit” is now called training to better communicate that these are foundations to be built upon, not terminal experiences.
- “Red Permit” is now Intro to Shop Tools to better capture the intent and content of the session. The content has been completely revamped as well.
- “Green Permit” is now Intro to Machining for the same reason. We hope to eliminate the confusion between the two colors previously offered!
I have my Red (or Green) Permit - Do I need to re-do my training after the name change?
Absolutely not, though of course you are welcome to get a refresher! The names have changed, but for the most part, the content remains exactly the same.
All students who have completed our training in the past still enjoy the same privileges and access that accompanied the training under the old names.
What training do I need?
This all depends on your project! Read through the information about the various training we offer using the links on the left hand side of this page and reach out if you have questions. We’re happy to help.
What is "Fusion" and how do I access it?
Fusion is the online system used to manage users’ training history, fee payment, equipment reservations, and training session signups/attendance. Access it here or click the link in the top right corner of this page where it says Fusion Login
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How do I set up a CAE account to use the lab's computers?
Here’s a link:
I'm basically Hephaestus, do I still need to go through the permit process?
Yes, even Hephaestus himself would have to go through our training. All of our students, staff, and faculty, no matter how experienced, are part of our making community, and training together is an important shared experience.
Many instructors like to take our training just to check in on what their students are learning. If you’re an advanced user, others in your hands-on session can certainly learn from you!
What if I don't have time for the training? I'm in a hurry!
We don’t make exceptions to our training requirements – it’s all about ensuring community safety and community standards.
Our labs contain machines and tools that, when operated improperly, can cause serious harm to the operator and those nearby. In addition, when a machine is damaged, it can take that machine offline just when others need it most.
Just like any other lab that uses hazardous materials or equipment, we require potential users to prove they have basic knowledge of the equipment and its safe operation prior to its use; the training requirements are the simplest way of proving that these users have this knowledge at scale (we have thousands of users per year!). It also gives users the ability to complete quality work in a safe and efficient manner and the assurance that those working around them are working safely too.
I am in a class that meets in a fabrication lab. If I do not get trained in time can I come to the lab anyway and just watch?
No. Just like any other lab that uses hazardous materials or equipment; we require potential lab users to prove they have basic knowledge of equipment and its safe operation before being allowed to use it. All students enrolled in courses that use the lab have training requirements clearly communicated to them at the beginning of the semester. Please contact your instructor if you feel your course timeline was unreasonable.
Once I've completed training, what next?
Our training is designed as a solid foundation on which you can build deeper competence through future experience. These are not intended as standalone courses! We hope we’ve given you what you need to both ask useful questions (which our staff can answer) and use the equipment & machines safely.
Do I ever have to renew my training?
Nope! Completing the training once is enough, but you’re always welcome to get a refresher.
Why are there hands-on training sessions, and do they have any prerequisites?
Most machines require in-person demonstration and supervised practice beyond what you can get from a Canvas module, which is why we offer hands-on training sessions. These small-group sessions allow individuals to ask questions and learn by demonstration.
All hands-on sessions have at least one (but usually more) prerequisites, which depends on the session. Some sessions build on prior knowledge. For example, taking our welding hands-on training requires some foundational knowledge of shop tools for the training to be effective. Use the links to the left to see the specific prerequisites for each session.
When are training sessions offered?
Each session is handled a bit differently, but in general, our labs offer many training sessions every week. Full schedule information is available on our general shop calendar, and specific session information can be found using the Fusion link provided at the end of the prerequisite Canvas module.
How do I register for a training session?
Use the link provided at the end of the prerequisite Canvas module to register for a session. If there are no sessions listed for your desired training session, please reach out to us. Depending on the time of year, we may be able to accommodate you.
I'm a professor/advisor. Can I arrange for a group of my students to all receive training at the same time through a special session?
Yes! We’d love to work with your class/group, so please reach out to us. We do require a fair bit of advanced notice – depending on the size of your group, we often need to close parts of the lab to accommodate this. We would like to understand more about your learning goals for your students/group and ensure our offerings will meet your needs.