SEM Link’s partners with OakLabs to host Digital Design and Laser Cutting/Engraving Workshop

OAKLAND, Calif. - Sept. 15, 2015 - PRLog -- SEM Link’s Math and Science Career Academy is partnering with OakLabs to host a Digital Design and Laser Cutting/Engraving Workshop Series for Middle School Students. The 3 part workshop series will take place on 3 Saturdays this fall; September 26, October 10 and October 24 from 11:00 am-2:30 pm. The workshops will take place at OakLabs located at 1721 Broadway in Oakland.  Attending youth can look forward to learning the basics concepts of digital design, laser engraving, project development, and entrepreneurship. There are a number of planned activities and design projects for everyone to choose from, however, personal art projects and designs are very much encouraged. Attendees can attend the entire series or one workshop, the cost of the series is $60 per person and the cost of each workshop is $25 per person.For those that choose to attend the entire series of classes, you will have the opportunity to work on some more detailed personal projects and get supportive assistance in their completion. Pre-registration is required on or September 24, register online http://semlinklaser.eventbrite.com.   For information and questions about the workshop series, contact SEM Link via email at info@semsuccess.org or via phone at (888)600-6294.

With the rapidly changing pace of technology in our society today, it is more important than ever for people, especially young people, to garner as much early experience in these fields as possible, so that they can compete on a level playing field with their contemporary peers. Laser cutting and engraving is a rapidly growing digital fabrication technique, similar to 3D printing that is seeing increased use in the Maker movement as the technology becomes more available to regular consumers. You can use lasers to make almost anything, and you can reproduce, alter, or improve upon your designs with just a click! Laser cutting is used widely in the development of robotics, fashion, artwork, personalized accessories, culinary artistry, and in prototyping for startups.  “There are career opportunities being created every day in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM); some of those careers are interdisciplinary and include non-STEM disciplines.  This Digital Design and Laser Cutting and Engraving provide students that are interested in  STEM as well as design, fashion, jewelry making and entrepreneurship to explore that career path. We are very excited to be partnering with OakLabs to provide this workshop for middle school students, which is a critical age for exposure to career paths” stated Ms. Tokiwa T. Smith SEM Link Founder and Executive Director.

The classes will cover a few specific topics:

·         Introduction to Laser cutting and engraving: This section will teach you the basics of how a laser cutter works, and what it can be used for. You will be able to see the machine in action and discover a few of the items that can be produced rapidly with ease.

·         Introduction to Design: This section will cover using a graphical arts programs, such as Adobe Illustrator and Corel Draw, to create your own designs and how to prepare them for laser engraving or cutting. We will go over the varied aspects of vector art and how to convert images or shapes into ready designs.

·         Entrepreneurship: Have you ever wanted to run your own business? Using your skills to turn your designs into products, and sites like Etsy to get your items directly to people who are interested in your work, you could be on the road to creating your own line of products (jewelry, tools, accessories, toys, or anything!).

·         Project Design and Creation: We have a number of pre-approved designs for you to try out on the laser. Then, you will be coached on developing your own idea and creating your first product.

About SEM Link

Science, Engineering and Mathematics Link, Inc. (SEM Link), a tax-exempt national nonprofit organization, founded in 2005 by Ms. Tokiwa T. Smith in Atlanta, Georgia on the premise that exposure to members of the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) communities is critical to student achievement and career exploration in math and science.  Our two core programs, Experimental Design Program and Math and Science Career Academy, enhance the STEM educational experience for K-12 students by providing them with opportunities to engage in hands-on STEM activities, explore STEM careers and learn about real-world applications of STEM. Since our inception we have served thousands of youth in Atlanta, the San Francisco Bay Area and the Washington DC Metro Area. Like SEM Link on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/semlinkinc) and follow @semlink on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/semlink) or @semlink on Instagram (http://instagram.com/semlink). For more information about SEM Link visit our website at www.semsuccess.org or email us at info@semsuccess.org.

About OakLabs:

OakLabs was founded in early 2015 by Weldon Hall and Karyne Silva with a mission to bring the widely adopted technology of laser cutting and engraving to an area (Oakland) that is originally known for its history in manufacturing, and is growing in terms of artisans, startups, movements and professionals that need access to rapid prototyping, fabrication,and design services. Our aim is to provide a reliable resource and essential training for the local community in order to empower those creative and entrepreneurial individuals to bring their ideas into reality. We assist in all levels of prototyping, design, technical and mechanical development, as well as education in the maintenance and development of this laser fabrication technology. For more information visit their website at www.oaklabs.co (https://d.docs.live.net/adcf0c40ff37ba2b/Documents/semlink/FY1516/CRMandPR/www.oaklabs.co)