Prototyping
Labs

Work in Dedicated On-Site Prototyping Labs

Students in the MS in Technology Innovation program have exclusive access to the facilities at the University of Washington’s Global Innovation Exchange. Steps away from our classrooms, our labs and workspaces have been designed to enable emerging technology leaders to transform ideas into innovations.

Watch a video about the labs here.

The Makerspace

A lab setup with a blue LPKF ProtoLaser machine on the right, labeled Laser & Electronics. Two computer monitors displaying software interfaces and keyboards are on a desk to the left. Shelving is visible in the background.

Hardware Prototyping Lab

The Makerspace

The large cooperative work area at the center of the Labs is affectionately called the Makerspace. This area includes worktables, model-making supplies, drawing tools, and a variety of other maker technologies that don’t fit the confines of a specific lab. Students, faculty, staff, and other members of our community interact and collaborate on design and prototyping solutions that address the unique challenges of their projects. Here you can explore form-finding, fabrication, and assembly techniques, and create complex parts and assemblies using computer-controlled equipment.

Executive Forum

Designed for close, high-quality discussion, the space combines tiered seating, integrated display technology, and flexible teaching capabilities to support lectures, group dialogue, executive briefings, and project presentations.

The executive forum features a sweeping, high-impact digital display designed to support both roundtable discussion and classroom-style learning. With clear sightlines from every seat, the room makes it easy to share presentations, data, video, and collaborative work at a scale that feels immersive without overpowering the conversation.

Hardware Prototyping Lab

The Hardware Prototyping Lab is a dedicated space for developing, testing, and fabricating electronics hardware prototypes. It houses several fully equipped electronic workstations, a full line of printed circuit board (PCB) prototyping equipment, and a library of materials and components available to all users.

Tiered Discussion Room

This tiered classroom was purpose-built to support a high-quality hybrid learning experience, allowing remote participants to engage as naturally and clearly as those in the room. A network of integrated microphones, distributed speakers, audience-facing cameras, and confidence monitors helps create seamless communication between in-person and remote students.

Curved rows and elevated seating provide strong sightlines throughout the room, while integrated projection and AV systems support presentations, discussion, and collaborative instruction from multiple positions.

Tour the Labs Virtually

Explore the GIX Prototyping Labs through our virtual tour to see where students build prototypes.

Want to join us in-person? Register for a monthly labs tour.

Where Ideas Become Innovations

This collaborative space at the heart of GIX provides an accessible environment where students can explore new prototyping approaches, apply what they have learned in class, and work with expert staff to gain skills relevant to their projects and interests.

Put Ideas into Practice

Technology innovation concepts become tangible for students who learn practical skills like soldering, 3D fabrication, PCB design, and more. Students have free access to required materials, tools, and spaces that enable them transform concepts into prototypes.

Fully Staffed, Fully Supported

Knowlegable expert staff supported by student crew are on-site to assist with all aspects of the prototype development including design, production, and iteration. Staff can assist with electronics and PCB prototyping, programming, 3D printing, CAD drafting, laser cutting, and CNC machining. Highly qualified students can apply for the paid crew positions each fall.

Hands-on Workshops

Students have access to hands-on workshops throughout the year where they can explore new prototyping concepts. Past workshops have included mold making, felting, epoxy casting, and many more. These quick workshops give students the opportunity to spend time learning with friends while learning new skills.

Working in the GIX Prototyping Labs has been one of the most memorable parts of the experience for me. It has allowed me to participate in the making and hacking community.

Chuck Scott (UW MSTI 2020) Product Owner, Solventum