Student conceptualizes, designs, creates in MC Idea FactoryJanuary 12, 2018

When Luis Zamarripa enrolled in classes at Midland College (MC) in 2015, he “accidentally” registered for a Computer Graphics class.

“I like playing video games and wanted to learn how to design computer games,” explained Zamarripa.  “I didn’t realize that Computer Graphics was actually computer assisted drafting.  The instructor said, ‘This isn’t what you want, but it’s a good foundation.’  So, I decided to stay in the class for a semester with the intention of then switching to the Information Technology program the next semester.  I found that I really enjoyed the Computer Graphics course—I liked the design aspect—so when it came time to register for the second semester, I just took the next course in the Computer Graphics program, rather than switching.”

Thirty-one-year-old Zamarripa not only found an affinity for courses in Computer Graphics, but also discovered his second home in MC’s new Idea Factory.  The Idea Factory is a technology learning space located at the MC Advanced Technology Center (ATC) which allows students the opportunity to collaborate, tinker, learn, design and make projects using a variety of tools and materials. An idea can be developed from conception to creation using the tools provided in the Idea Factory including 3D printing, 3D scanning, laser engraving, CNC milling, vinyl cutting and more.

“I started using resources in the Idea Factory for some of my own designs, and then other students would ask me for help,” said Zamarripa.  “I loved hanging out in the Idea Factory and assisting with projects.  One day, Derek Gasch, the department chair, asked me if I would be interested in working as a part-time lab instructor and actually get paid for helping students.  Of course, I said ‘yes.’  It’s a great job!

“My goal for this semester is to make the Idea Factory more accessible to all MC students.  Currently, the students at the ATC use it, but I’d like to take some of the smaller equipment to the main campus occasionally so that other students can also take advantage of some of the resources.”

Zamarripa explained that one of the most interesting projects to come out of the Idea Factory so far is a submersible sensor pod designed by MC Engineering students to test water quality.  The pods were used by the MC Chemistry department to study water near coral reefs.

“The Engineering faculty and students designed the pods, and then I worked with them to show them how to use the 3D printer and other equipment in the Idea Factory to actually make the pods,” said Zamarripa.

In addition, Zamarripa is working with instructors teaching introductory health sciences courses who use Idea Factory virtual reality equipment and software to instruct basic anatomy and physiology skills.

“Luis is a smart and very motivated individual,” said Derek Gasch, MC Manufacturing Services department chair.  “He loves to figure things out and to make things.  He is always designing something to fix a problem or to replace a broken part with something he created with the 3D printers, CNC mill or laser engraver in the Idea Factory.”

In his spare time, Zamarripa tinkers with his own designs.  His recent projects include designing and making a music box shaped like a robot and converting an old information computer kiosk into a video gaming center. 

Zamarripa will graduate from MC with an Associate of Applied Science degree in Computer Graphics in May of 2019.  He takes two or three classes each semester.  Until last spring, he was also taking care of his grandmother, who was not in good health.  She passed away in April 2016. 

Zamarripa is the oldest of four siblings.  His has two brothers, Antonio and Arturo, and a sister Lucero.  All are native Midlanders who were raised by their grandmother.  Lucero is also taking classes at MC.

Luis Zamarripa graduated from Lee High School in 2006 and then held various jobs working as a file clerk and maintenance technician before enrolling in Midland College to pursue his dream of a career in gaming software development. 

“Even though I decided to take the Computer Graphics route, rather than the traditional Information Technology route, my goal is to pursue a video gaming career,” said Zamarripa.  “When I complete my associate degree, I plan to move to Austin since that is home to quite a few software development companies.  However, I’m in no hurry.  By working in the Idea Factory and taking Computer Graphics courses, I’m learning as much as possible—and I’m having fun doing it!”