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The Construct3D conference was held at NYU’s Tandon Campus in Brooklyn, NY this year (2023). The conference is about spreading the word on what’s new in the world of digital fabrication hardware, software, and teaching methods. Sponsors and keynote speakers alike talk about how to best integrate this technology into multiple areas of study with a focus on three dimensional capabilities. Advancement in the field of digital fabrication moves fast. And the current trend of using 3D printers commonly overshadows CNC technology in terms of awareness of 3D (and sometimes even 2D) capabilities. We sponsor, exhibit, and conduct workshops at the Construct3D conference to bring awareness of just how essential a ShopBot CNC machine is to all makerspaces. 

ShopBot CNC machines are in schools and makerspaces around the world. Sallye Coyle and I spoke with many ShopBot users who were happy to see that we have new products, like the Desktop MAX ATC V2, and training opportunities to consider. We were happy to hear from many ShopBot-equipped facilities that would like to outfit additional spaces with ShopBot CNC machines, including more makerspaces throughout NYU. 
 
Our booth was located right next to the NYU Makerspace at 6 Metrotech Center, where they have both ShopBot Desktop and ShopBot Buddy® CNC machines. When we were not at our booth full of samples, swag, and CNC machine info, we were across the way at 370 Jay Street where NYU houses many more makerspaces. At this year’s conference, two ShopBot CNC workshops were held at a new space in the basement of 370 Jay Street where they house two ShopBot Desktop MAX CNC machines. 

 
The first workshop featured Rob Swainston, an artist and educator from NYC who combines new and old technology to create original block print art pieces. Rob took us through his design process and even had time to cut a sample block from a scrap piece of plywood to show a small example of how he prints his work. 

The next day, Sallye Coyle held a CNC workshop entitled “Intro to 3D (and 2D/VCarving) with CNC machines.” While primarily focused on describing the 3D capabilities of a 3-axis ShopBot CNC machine, Sallye also covered the basics of designing in Vectric VCarve Pro, tool-pathing, hold-down methods, and created a 3D design sample utilizing one of the ShopBot Desktop MAX CNC machines. With assistance from educator and ShopBot partner, John Kuiphoff, and myself (Ross from ShopBot!), we made sure every attendee walked away with a sample they designed and cut on the CNC machine using the easy and fun-to-use, “V” bit. 

We hope attendees of Construct3D learned a lot more about ShopBot Tools and we encourage everyone to contact us for more information on finding a ShopBot CNC machine that fits your shop size and budget. And of course, we hope to see you at the next Construct3D Conference!