Dakota’s Fabrication Lab or better known as the “Fab Lab” is focused on product development through project based learning where design meets innovation. The lab is designed to support the creativity and innovations of individuals or groups that want to take their ideas and make them into realities. This lab incorporates some of the best fabrication technologies used in the real-world environment, with the primary goal to move design to product development.
Students learn to use commercially available technologies to “conceptualize, design, develop, fabricate and test” projects. The Fab Lab features advanced computer software and modern tools for CNC turning and machining, CNC plasma cutting, MIG or TIG welding, tube bending, New Co2 Laser Technology, and rapid prototyping processes.
Fab Labs are now an international initiative and Dakota High School is on the leading edge of that technology having a lab for the past 20 years.
Fabrication Lab Technician
Mr. Dinunzio consults with a student about proper grinding techniques.
It is my pleasure to introduce Mr. Pat Dinunzio as our Fabrication Lab Technician at Dakota High School. This position was created because of the high demand need for highly skilled engineers and technicians with hands-on experience. Mr. Dinunzio has worked in many high-tech fabrication facilities over the past 35 years and has used and maintained some of the best equipment in the industry. He has graciously given up his time to help our students in the Design Technology Program. Mr. Dinunzio possesses a variety of technical and software skills that apply directly to this position. His background in welding, machining and fabrication has enhanced his ability to collaborate and teach technical skills to our students which is embedded into our Design Technology curriculum and all CTE programs. His passion clearly lies in the fabrication area and his interest and willingness to help others is something that is truly special.