MNE Innovation Lab

The MNE Innovation Lab provides a space for students to freely use equipment with proper training.

Hours of operation

Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.*


After hour access is based on the availability of staffing and interest. If granted, hours will be Monday through Friday – 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on Saturday 8:00 a.m. to Noon and certain equipment will be restricted.

*Subject to change

The VCU College of Engineering MNE Innovation Lab is a 1500 square foot suite located on the third floor of Engineering East Hall, E3267. This facility provides faculty and students with 3D printing, Digital 3D Scanning, Post Processing Tools for 3D Printing, and basic hand tools.  The Innovation Lab encourages and enhances learning within the design and additive manufacturing field of engineering while providing professional services to the entire university research community.

Within the suite, there is an assembly area where students have space designated for various projects related to additive manufacturing.  A student computing area is available and is setup with multiple workstations allowing users to modify their designs more quickly. This space also provides an area for design teams to hold professional meetings.  Additionally, this makerspace allows all student users an innovation space where they can work through all phases of a project in one central location.  A user of this facility can take their project from initial design straight through to the final functioning prototype.

Safety, of all users, is a top priority in all functions and operations. Strict guidelines are in place providing a safe, clean, and organized space while fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.

How to use the space

The space is open to all students who have obtained the proper certification and training. Students seeking to use this space must first complete Makerspace Orientation and General Safety Training and demonstrate the ability to operate basic equipment before access is granted. For more advanced equipment and tools, higher level training courses will be available and required.