White House event showcases YSU engineering, art initiative

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Youngstown State University’s new Launch Lab, an initiative that combines engineering and art, was among the programs highlighted at the first White House Maker Faire on Wednesday in Washington, D.C., hosted by President Barack Obama.

Martin Abraham, dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, was at the White House to represent YSU. The event features makers, innovators and entrepreneurs using cutting-edge tools to bring life to ideas.

Abraham was invited to the White House to share information about Launch Lab, a joint initiative of the STEM College and YSU’s art department. Abraham said the lab, which still is under development, will allow science and engineering students to work collaboratively with art students to make cutting-edge and appealing products.

“In today’s commercial marketplace, it is important to not only produce technically and functionally sound products, but products that also are appealing and interesting to customers from an artistic standpoint,” Abraham said. “That is what Launch Lab will do.”

“This initiative will serve as a launch pad for ideas,” added Bryan DePoy, dean of the YSU College of Creative Arts and Communication. “Today’s electronic devices and products must look good, feel good and have some expressive meaning to them. Launch Lab will be the place where form meets function.”

The lab will include 3-D printers, machining and woodworking tools, circuit boards and electronics and other equipment. Abraham and DePoy envision businesses using the lab, as well as high-school classes.