The Deason Innovation Gym, more commonly known by its acronym, the DIG, is an on-campus maker-space for all students at Southern Methodist University. Located in the basement of Caruth Hall, it offers a variety of tools. Kylah Bergan, the head of marketing and assistant manager at the DIG, enthusiastically shared what the DIG has to offer.
“We have a full wood shop, a full metal shop, over eight 3D printers, a laser cutter, a vinyl cutter, 3D scanners, 3D modeling software, CAD, Shaper Origin, CNC machines and possibly, this is just a rumor, but the DIG might be getting an upgrade,” Bergan said.
The update Bergan mentioned is a new UV Resin Printer that was recently installed in the DIG. In addition to the tools she spoke about, the DIG also offers sewing machines, a button making machine, various electronic tools and other easy-to-use crafts such as paint, beads, hot glue and fabrics.
“If you literally want to do or make anything that you can ever dream of, pull up to the DIG. All you could possibly lose is a little bit of time,” Bergan said.
When asked about the workplace atmosphere, Lab Technician Sarah Tadesse says she enjoys it.
“I love working there. It has honestly made my life at SMU so much better. It’s where I met my friends, where I met my boyfriend,” Tadesse said.
Tadesse was aware of the DIG before she began working there, and would always go there in her spare time. She especially liked that everything at the DIG is free.
“Everything down there is free and you can make whatever you want, so all those fun little TikTok trends, everything that you see that you want to do so badly? Why spend money when you can make it here?” Tadesse said.
JT Ringer, the lab manager of the DIG, described the makerspace as “The best place on campus!”
“I love when people with different backgrounds and interests find themselves in the same place and create something they couldn’t have created alone,” Ringer said.
Not only is the DIG a makerspace, but it also hosts many events. This school year, they hosted Dig-O-Ween and, most recently, Emo Nite. When asked which event was his favorite, Ringer had an easy answer.
“This year, it was definitely the Halloween party. Our staff members showcased their personal interests by leading small projects throughout the night,” Ringer said.
The DIG also hosts weekly training sessions, which students can register for on SMU 360. In order to use many of the machines, a student must become certified to use them. They can come in during staffed hours and get trained, allowing them to come back after twenty-four hours to take a certification test. If a student desires a more structured training, then they can register for a training session instead.
With new machines and upgrades recently installed, the future of the DIG expands the possibilities of what students can accomplish and create in the makerspace. To learn more, visit the DIG website, thedig.org, follow them on Instagram, @deasoninnovationgym, or go in person during staffed hours and ask any of the friendly staff questions.
