The Columbus School technology department recently welcomed a cutting-edge addition to the school’s large machine repertoire: a large CNC router machine, destined for the integration of STEM skills into the school curriculum.
This computer-controlled machine uses precise and robust hardware with software to move a milling cutter edge in three axes to carve, cut, and engrave materials like; wood, plastic, and metal with accuracy and speed. Something that before was tasked to third-party providers, costing the school time and money, and limiting the experience students can acquire from the use of these machines. Its ability to turn simple ideas to tangible creators students can handle is transforming our approach to education and fostering a new generation of makers and innovators.
“Having access to such an advanced piece of equipment at school is honestly amazing. It shows that our school is committed to giving us hands-on experience with professional-grade machinery. I feel really lucky and excited to have this opportunity before even going to college.” Martin Villa said.
As technology becomes more prevalent in education, the introduction of these sorts of machines allows students to combine creativity and STEM skills with already existing academic practices. As the school introduces technology, the curriculum becomes more flexible and adaptive to today’s standards.
“The CNC router will have a transformative impact on student learning by enabling hands-on, interdisciplinary experiences. Engineering and robotics students can design and fabricate custom parts for real-world challenges, while art students can create intricate, large-scale works” Hector said.
Although the entire school community benefits from the integration of technology into the curriculum, the high school’s robotics team “Lightning Blue Lizards” is particularly thrilled by the introduction of the machine. The mechanical division of the team is now able to work metal and wood pieces, saving the costs of machining, and reducing manufacturing time by half in comparison to third-party services. Moreover, it allows for larger projects to be developed in the Makerspace.
“The CNC router stands out because of its versatility and precision, making it a powerful addition to our makerspace. It can handle a wide variety of materials, including wood, plastics, and soft metals, enabling students and staff to take on diverse projects. While it serves the FRC robotics team and arts department directly, its potential extends to all subjects, allowing students to bridge digital design and physical fabrication. We also see this machine as a catalyst for encouraging math and science teachers to explore creative ways to integrate fabrication tools into their projects, such as visualizing geometry, building scientific models, or creating data visualizations.” Hector Londoño, Technology leader, said .
Introducing this machine comes with challenges, of course, but the school’s technology and innovation team is ready to tackle them to have a fully operational machine at the students’ disposal.
“Challenges may include routine maintenance, proper operation, and balancing usage across departments. To address these, we’re establishing a detailed maintenance plan and training designated staff and students to oversee its upkeep. The maintenance department will also play an active role, using the CNC router for campus needs while helping to manage its functionality. However, the main challenge will be to get the community to see its potential and to make a real innovative use of it.” Hector said.
The machine is still being worked on. The maintenance team is working hard alongside the company responsible for the machine to have it fully operational. The school’s community will greatly benefit from integrating the CNC router, and further additions that will make the curriculum more up-to-date to today’s rapid advancements in technology that require skilled students capable of working hand in hand with cutting-edge technology.
The CNC router will have a transformative impact on student learning by enabling hands-on, interdisciplinary experiences. Engineering and robotics students can design and fabricate custom parts for real-world challenges, while art students can create intricate, large-scale works.” Londoño said.