Fab Lab is a group of makerspaces - places where you can make almost anything. We are equipped with high-tech equipment and fabrication machines to help you create, invent or design something new.

We are powered by Sandwell Colleges Group and offer free and open access to students, lecturers, employers and members of the public.

We are also part of a global ‘Fab Lab’ movement, which was the brainchild of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

<aside> <img src="https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/secure.notion-static.com/fb80a63d-3170-4869-9f48-7199facfb098/fablab_wheel.png" alt="https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/secure.notion-static.com/fb80a63d-3170-4869-9f48-7199facfb098/fablab_wheel.png" width="40px" /> Fab Lab timeline:

• Started as a makerspace in West Bromwich, Sandwell in 2015 – that was open to all, with the mantra ’if you can dream it, we can help you make it’. We are equipped with cutting-edge technologies, such as: 3D printers, laser cutters & CNC machines.
• In 2020, we expanded our remit and created an ‘Emerging Technologies Demonstrator Site’, with the support of the West Midlands Combined Authority.
• In 2021 and 2022, we embarked on new projects to digitally upskill Black Country & West Midlands employers.
• In 2023, we launched a second Fab Lab makerspace, based at Cadbury College in Kings Norton, Birmingham. </aside>

Our Mission

• To support the economic growth and development of Black Country and West Midlands businesses and residents via:
  • the democratisation of making
  • application of emerging technologies
  • digital upskilling
  • continuing innovation

Our Impact

• We work to develop the future talent of the Black Country and West Midlands by:

  • Raising aspirations and changing lives
  • Boosting the STEM pipeline with women and ethnic minorities
  • Levelling up and smashing the digital divide

• We work with Sandwell Colleges Group lecturers, across the curriculum, to:

  • Find innovative ways to teach subjects
  • Improve lesson delivery
  • Streamline various admin & back-office processes
  • Lead the FE sector in the use of and application of emerging technologies