Good news in Denver, updated

[mrnoble]

A while back I posted a couple times about an opportunity that our team had to ask for a new facility centered around engineering and FRC for our school. I wanted to update you all, and most particularly, let teams in the Colorado Front Range know that we did this with all of you in mind, in hopes that we could provide you with facilities that would serve everyone.

I'm thrilled to say that we have begun the process of converting an old "Butler" building at our school (really a huge shed) into a new engineering center. We received multiple grants totaling around $750,000 for a full renovation and refitting, as well as a decent slate of machinery. Right now, it looks like we will have:

• a Bridgeport-style DRO mill
• a DRO engine lathe
• a small (5 x 5) water jet
• a cold saw
• a brake/shear
• expanded 3D printing capacity

And,

• a half+ FRC playing field

Construction has begun, and will likely be completed within days of the 2016 kickoff in January. We know that Denver and the Front Range has tons of potential, with fantastic dedicated mentors and coaches, and bright, enthusiastic students. We hope that having access to new machining options, as well as a playing field for practice, will help these great teams reach new heights in years to come.

[DarkRune]

That sounds amazing. I can't wait to see what it looks like when it's all done. Please share some pics

[WillNess]

Wow this sounds really cool, congratulations on the huge project and the grants you got. Too bad we're in Western Colorado

[mrnoble]

Originally Posted by WillNess

Too bad we're in Western Colorado

We would still love to have you guys out when you are in town for the regional, if you have the chance. It's been a lot of fun watching your team do unique stuff over the last two years.

[asid61]

That sounds amazing! Best of luck using those tools. Can you do sheet metal work on the waterjet or does the process mess stuff up?