IDEAStudio
The Makerspace at West Houston Institute
Explore, Imagine, Create!
IDEAStudio is the makerspace at Houston Community College's West Houston Institute. We provide an open and supportive place where you can develop your creative mindset and skillset supported by digital fabrication technologies such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines as well as traditional tools like drills, saws, and welders to take your ideas from concept to reality.
"IDEAS" stands for Innovation, Design & Entrepreneurship integrated into the Arts & Sciences. To help you develop the mindsets and skillsets we believe are essential for your success today, we offer a range of programs including membership and training for students, faculty, and staff; courses in design and making techniques; support for instructional and community projects; and speakers and events for learning and networking.
For Students, Faculty & Staff
Become an IDEAStudio member
Become an IDEAStudio member and become a part of our creative community with access to amazing tools and technologies to empower your imagination and bring your ideas to life! All current Houston Community College students, faculty, and staff can become members without cost. As a member, you can develop your unique creative identity as you learn and grow through workshops, trainings, and collaborations with others.
Complete the IDEAStudio new member orientation
Register for IDEAStudio member training
IDEAStudio Members can sign up here for any of the free training sessions offered every semester. Tool trainings provide you with introductory instruction in the safe use of available tools in the makerspace. Once you have successfully completed a tool training, you can reserve time to come in and use the tool during our open member hours posted each semester.
Register for IDEAStudio member training sessions
Reserve IDEAStudio tools and spaces
Are you an IDEAStudio Members who has completed one or more tool trainings? If so, you can use our external booking system to reserve a time to use the tools in the makerspace. You are required to have already completed training and passed the exit test before you will be able to use any tools. Access levels will be checked upon arrival at the time of reservation.
Reserve tools and spaces or take a virtual tour
Request instructional project support
Faculty and other instructional and student support leaders can collaborate with West Houston Institute and IDEAStudio to integrate creative thinking and doing into their courses and programs. This includes projects that take place as part of a class or program as well as outside the classroom through extracurricular or co-curricular activities.
We will work with you to develop a unique plan that supports your learning goals and infuses creativity and innovation into to your curriculum. To get started, you can reach out directly to the West Houston Institute Director, Jordan Carswell through email or Teams.
For the Community
Request a class or group makerspace tour
IDEAStudio welcomes requests for tours of the makerspace by school and community groups. We work with requestors to craft a unique experience for your group that meets your goals for your visit whether it is to introduce making and creativity to young learners, explore innovative technologies such as 3D printing, or just learn something new.
Contact WHI Director, Jordan Carswell, jordan.carswell@hccs.edu
Collaborate on a makerspace project
The IDEAStudio at West Houston Institute is committed to working with our local community on activities that promote maker education, job and career opportunities, and a sustainable future that is more responsible, more livable, and more equitable for everyone. Learn more about the ways you can engage with us and then let's talk!
Explore ways to collaborate with us!
Contact Us
IDEAStudio Makerspace
West Houston Institute