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Lubar Emerging Technology Center

The Lubar Emerging Technology Center (ETC) is a place where MIAD students, staff and faculty engage with technologies as they develop. The purpose of the Lubar ETC is to help students learn how to learn to use technology to support their creative practice. All students have full access to the center, regardless of course of study or discipline. The center supports 3 types of digital making: Rapid Prototyping, Immersive Technology, and Physical Computing.

Visit the Lubar Emerging Technology Center here.

Rapid Prototyping:

Rapid Prototyping is the used of computer controlled machines to make three dimensional objects.

(2) Universal Laser Systems 6.150D laser cutters / etchers
(7) Lulzbot Taz 6 FDM 3D Printers
(4) Formlabs Form 2 SLA 3D Printers with automatic wash stations
(1) Roland CAMM-1 GR-420 42” Digital Cutter
(3) Silhouette Cameo 3 12” Digital Cutters

Immersive Technology:

Immersive Technology uses Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality to create compelling user experiences through digital display.  The Lubar ETC has all three of the major VR platforms present in the lab, as well as Microsoft Hololens, ambisonic microphones and 360 degree video cameras with stitching software.

(1) HTC Vive Virtual Reality Headset
(1) Oculus Rift Virtual Reality Headset
(1) Samsung HMD Odyssey Mixed Reality Headset
(2) Microsoft Hololens Augmented Reality Headsets
(1) GoPro Omni 360 degree video camera
(1) Garmin VIRB 360 degree video camera
(1) Sennheiser Ambeo ambisonic microphone with dedicated TASCAM multitrack audio recorder
(40) Google Cardboard

Physical Computing:

Physical Computing is the discipline of making interactive and dynamic physical objects using small computers.

(8) Raspberry Pi 3 mini computers
(20) Arudino Uno microcontrollers
(12) Adafruit Flora and Gemma wearable microconrtollers
(3) Full circuit prototyping stations with Hakko soldering irons, fume extractors, soldering aids, etc.

News

MIAD Students Connect Science and Design Through Natural Science Minor

Two MIAD students are demonstrating how scientific research can strengthen creative practice through the college’s Natural Science minor.
Seniors Ella Strzempa ’27 (Communication Design) and Keira Batzel ’27 (Fashion and Apparel Design) explored environmental issues through independent research projects in their science minor while developing skills that complement their studio work.

MIAD Makes Its Mark at MAPC 2026

A group of MIAD students, faculty and staff attended the 2026 Mid America Print Council (MAPC) Conference, “Printelligence,” in Baton Rouge, where they participated in demonstrations, panel discussions, exhibitions and professional networking opportunities.

Independent Inquiry Program students explore AI through research and creative practice

As emerging technologies continue to reshape creative industries, MIAD’s Independent Inquiry Program (IIP) gives students the opportunity to investigate their impact firsthand. Through philanthropically funded support, the optional, by application program allows students to pursue self-directed research projects that explore how new technologies can influence art, design and education.