Creative Spark provides a dedicated training and workspace facility in Dundalk. We welcome and support new and established businesses operating within the creative industries, innovation, technology, and sustainable energy sectors. Creative Spark provides a dedicated training and workspace facility in Dundalk. We welcome and support new and established businesses operating within the creative industries, innovation, technology, and sustainable energy sectors.

Fab Academy documentation site for Carl McAteer

I have a background in product design with many years of industry experience.Currently, I work at South West College, a further education college in Northern Ireland with campuses in Omagh, Dungannon, Enniskillen, and Cookstown. I’m based in the Idea Centre, a product development hub within the college designed to foster connections between industry and academia. I’ve always believed that the Idea Centre should align with the Fab Lab Network, and I hope South West College will work towards launching a Fab Lab in the future.I secured funding through staff development at the college to participate in Fab Academy, with additional support from the Connected NI programme—for which I’m very grateful. Through Fab Academy, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the Fab Lab Network, learn how the Fab Academy operates, and ultimately improve my skills in digital fabrication and making. I have a keen interest in 3D printing and digital fabrication. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family, swimming, scouting, and getting outdoors—hiking and climbing mountains (though I definitely need to do more of the latter!).

During Fab Academy, we learn to bring ideas to life using the tools and technologies found in FabLabs (digital fabrication laboratories). These spaces are equipped with everything from 3D printers and laser cutters to electronics workstations, enabling us to make almost anything. Follow along as I document my learning journey and prototype my final project.