Syracuse Sun

At the heart of the University community, the Information Technology Services MakerSpace offers a collaborative environment where students and faculty can work on artistic projects while sharing ideas and technological knowledge. Since January, this creative hub has been located on the first floor of Marshall Square Mall.

“There’s definitely this misconception about MakerSpace that it is just 3D printing, but this place is so much more than that,” says Mike d’Amore, a student supervisor at MakerSpace and a graduate student in data science. He describes it as a "free-flowing, creative spot" where innovative projects come to life.

MakerSpace provides resources such as embroidery machines, laser engravers, soldering tools, and musical instruments. “If you can visualize it, you can build it here at MakerSpace," states John Mangicaro, technical lab manager with 45 years at the University. He encourages students to share their visions and promises support in realizing them.

The facility boasts advanced equipment including various types of 3D printers, full-color printers, vinyl cutters, dye sublimation machines for stickers or T-shirts production, electronics tools, creative software like Adobe Suite and Pro Tools Mixing Software for music recording.

Mangicaro highlights that MakerSpace is entirely student-driven with staff members like d’Amore ensuring smooth operations. Matt Lustrino ’25 finds his role there aligns perfectly with his interests in soldering and 3D printing. Zoe Power ’28 appreciates meeting other creatives in an environment she describes as limitless in potential.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, MakerSpace managed around 1,900 jobs annually; last year saw an increase to 3,400 work orders. The new location has improved visibility significantly; within two weeks of opening there was a 60% rise in project handling compared to the previous year.

“I’m a terminal tinkerer," says Mangicaro who initiated MakerSpace over a decade ago. He invites campus members to explore its offerings during an open house scheduled for March 28 from 3 to 5 p.m., accessible with valid SU I.Ds during academic hours throughout the week.