The MIX unlocks innovation in teaching and research

The Mason Innovation Exchange (MIX) at George Mason University is more than a makerspace-it's a resource for transforming how faculty teach, explore, and conduct research.

Located on the first floor of Horizon Hall, the MIX is university-wide hub for innovation where faculty across the disciplines can enhance their curriculum, experiment with new technologies, and bring research ideas to life. Whether integrating hands-on prototyping into courses, designing a new research project, or exploring creative approaches to student engagement, the MIX and its team of experts provides the space, tools, and support to bring faculty ideas to fruition.

The MIX is quickly becoming a central hub where teaching, research, and entrepreneurship converge. With nearly 20,000 visitors each year and a dedicated team of 12 to 15 staff members, the MIX ensures that faculty receive the support they need to innovate in both teaching and research.

Building on this foundation, faculty are increasingly using the MIX as both a classroom extension and a research partner. The space is designed to support teaching in ways that go beyond lectures and slides, offering students direct experience with the design process, technical systems, and collaborative project work.

Faculty report that when they bring their courses into the MIX, students leave with more than theory-they leave with portfolios that include prototypes, digital media, research outputs, and even digital badges in emerging technologies. These tangible outcomes make George Mason students more competitive when applying for jobs, internships, and graduate programs.

"The MIX gives faculty a place to extend their courses beyond the classroom and into a space where students can design, prototype, and test ideas in real time," said Max Kazemzadeh, MIX manager and events coordinator. "The collaborative environment also fosters interdisciplinary connections-engineering students working alongside artists, or business students working with scientists-which mirrors the kind of teamwork graduates will encounter in the professional world."

The value of space extends to creative work as well. School of Art faculty have used its facilities to collect experimental data, test new ideas, and fabricate art work. For example, Edgar Endressused the computer numerical control router to build a sculpture featured in the 2025 Arts in Foggy Bottom Outdoor Sculpture Biennial, while Sue Wrbicanleveraged fabrication tools to expand her work in digital photography.

For some faculty, the partnership has been transformative.

"Collaborating with the MIX has been an essential opportunity to develop projects with our students that can grow to the next level," School of Arts professor John von Bergen said.

As for students, the MIX and its staff assisted with class projects through their wide range of equipment, accompanied by easy-to-follow training. "The MIX helped me stay ahead of trends and technology," said Audrey Kim, who graduated with a BFA in graphic design in May. "Although it's a learning curve, it's worth conquering since these machines can be found in many other industries and having experience with them opens so many doors to new opportunities."

Kim also appreciated how friendly and knowledgeable the MIX staff are. "When it comes to training or problem solving, it's a team effort to make sure what you're working on meets your expectations."

The staff provide hands-on workshops, safety training, and one-on-one consultations so faculty and their students can confidently work with the available 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers, sewing machines, electronics workstations, and augmented and virtual reality equipment.

"Looking forward, we see the MIX enabling more cross-departmental collaborations, expanding opportunities for student research participation, and shaping innovative course design," said Kazemzadeh.

He said that the MIX staff are eager to partner on curriculum design, research prototypes, and interdisciplinary projects. Representatives can visit departments, consult on course planning, or co-host workshops and events. To explore how the MIX can enhance teaching or research, contact Gisele Stoltz, senior director of entrepreneurship and innovation.

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