“There are usually plenty of laboratories and workshops at domestic technical universities, but rarely are there spaces where students can simply come and test yesterday’s ideas,” says Zygmunt Skiba, the supervisor of WUT MakerSpace, part of the WUT Innovation Center at Rektorska Street 4. "Access to faculty labs is usually only available during classes or with special permission, which discourages most students. At WUT MakerSpace, there’s more freedom because this space was created with young inventors in mind."

WUT MakerSpace consists of two spaces: a workshop of 160 m² and a coworking area of similar size. In the “workshop” part, there are workstations equipped with 3D printers, electronic and modeling tools, drills, soldering irons, and CNC machines such as milling machines. The coworking space, on the other hand, is a place for project discussions and relaxation after work. It is equipped with comfortable bean bags, projectors, monitors, and a kitchen area.

“We spend a lot of time in the laboratories tinkering with our rockets, and it's nice to sit in the room next door and focus on project work,” says Maciej Grzywka, leader of the MELprop Scientific Circle, who probably spends more time at WUT MakerSpace than at home. “It’s a very practical haven for future engineers. The supervisors of this space are also engineers, so you can get professional advice on manufacturing rocket components.”

Last academic year, 42 events involving over 550 students were held at WUT MakerSpace. The space naturally becomes a place to meet project partners from completely different research sectors. One of the scientific circles meeting at WUT MakerSpace is WUT Racing, which recently showcased its new race car. Thanks to discussions and modeling at WUT MakerSpace, the rear wing of the WUT-5 model was redesigned, improving downforce on the track by 30%.

”Everyone who likes to experiment is welcome,” declares Zygmunt Skiba. “Besides tools, we also offer a cozy space for autumn afternoons and technical advice from senior colleagues. I admit that these pieces of advice can sometimes turn a project upside down, but every engineer must be prepared for such twists.”

Zygmunt Skiba – the supervisor of the WUT MakerSpace