The roots for Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab began in 2005 when Dr. Fritz and Ping Faulhaber recognized a need to bring hands-on science into classrooms so students could learn through experience rather than through traditional textbooks and lectures. They officially launched the Science Lending Library in partnership with forward-thinking educators in the Pinellas, Hillsborough and Sarasota County School Districts to provide educators with free standards-based science kits to enhance students’ understanding of complex science concepts. The program’s success was immediate, and after a few years operating out of the family business’ warehouse, the Science Lending Library accepted a proposal to move to Tampa’s renowned Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI).
After the Science Lending Library’s success, the Faulhabers wanted to evolve their initiative to bring science to life for future innovators of the community. They wanted to create a space for innovation outside the realm of conventional learning. Thus, the Faulhaber Fab Lab was born. The Fab Lab’s mission was to provide state-of-the-art equipment, such as 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers, etc., to allow any person to fabricate their dreams. In 2014, the fabrication lab and Science Leading Library naturally merged to form the Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab, a hub of experiential learning for all ages, lovingly referred to by many as the “Fab Lab”.
