SparkLab
Join Us
UNBC INNOVATION HUB

An innovation sandbox empowering dreamers and doers to transform imaginative concepts into real-world solutions.

SparkLab workspace
Who We Are

Where Ideas Take Shape

SparkLab is UNBC’s product creation lab — a space where students, researchers, and community members transform concepts into tangible prototypes. We bridge the gap between imagination and innovation.

With access to 3D printers, electronics workstations, CAD software, and expert mentorship, we provide everything needed to take an idea from sketch to reality.

Open
To Everyone
Weekly
Drop-in Sessions

The clamp is extremely effective in my compression test setup. It makes it possible to hold additional external LVDTs in both the normal and lateral directions, perfectly accommodating the chain for lateral measurements. The installation process is straightforward. It is both economical and practical, fully meeting the requirements for my uniaxial compression tests.

— Huan Yu , Ph.D. Student, UNBC

The project not only met but exceeded our expectations in terms of design precision and robustness. The final models perfectly integrated with our system, showcasing exceptional engineering and design proficiency. The proactive engagement and expertise of the UNBC team were instrumental in the project's success.

— Aatif Ali Shah , Post-doctorate, UNBC

The AAH helped me design and print Pacific Wren models for my master's project. The model proportions are accurate to a real Pacific wren and are meant to be used as decoys for target banding. The models will be set up in the field next to a speaker playing the Pacific wren song with a mist net in front of them. The decoy and the song will trigger territorial male Pacific wrens to fly at the decoy, making them fly into the net. Being able to capture and band these wrens and being able to identify individuals in the field will be vital to my research.

— Alexa Wiebe , Master's Student, UNBC

The tremor simulation device is a tool that allows for the testing of a tremor reduction glove used by people living with essential tremor or Parkinson’s. It’s not a commercial product so when it broke it’s very difficult to replace. The team at Spark Lab was able to redesign the clamp and get the system operational in no time.

— Richard McAloney , Director, CTAAN

I was trying to attach plastic plates to a shaking platform for an algal growth assay. I used to use tape for that, which was a nuisance because it required lots of tapping and untapping. Spark Lab designed a plate holder that would fit into the holes in the platform. I am immensely thankful to Fryderyk Paczkowski and Caleb Mueller from the Spark Lab for their ingenuity and support in creating the custom plate clamp holders for my research project. Transitioning from the cumbersome tape method to these well crafted clamps has significantly streamlined my process of growing C.merolae strains, allowing for seamless measurements and maintenance of these cultures. This improvement has not only enhanced the efficiency of my work but has also positively impacted the quality of my research outcomes.

— Maryam Ghaffarzadeh , Ph.D. Student, UNBC
// What We Offer

Services

Drop in every Tuesdays 10–12 or Wednesdays 2–4 or get in touch

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3D Printing & Prototyping

Bring your designs to life with our professional-grade 3D printers and rapid prototyping capabilities.

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Design & Modeling

Access CAD software and expert guidance to create detailed designs and technical models.

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Coding & Electronics

Build circuits, program microcontrollers, and develop custom electronic solutions for your projects.

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Website Development

Create your digital presence with web development support, from simple sites to complex applications.

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AI Tools & Support

Leverage artificial intelligence tools and get guidance on integrating AI into your projects.

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Research Support

Get assistance with academic research, data analysis, and connecting with UNBC resources.

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Entrepreneurship Mentoring

Navigate the journey from idea to business with mentorship and entrepreneurial guidance.

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Community Connections

Join a network of creators, innovators, and like-minded individuals driving positive change.

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CREATE AMAZING
🔥 Tuesdays 10–12 or Wednesdays 2–4

Ready to Create Something Amazing?

Whether you have a fully formed idea or just a spark of inspiration, we’re here to help you build it. Join our weekly sessions and become part of the SparkLab community.

Join The Meeting