Super User Info

Super users are trusted students trained on and fully comfortable with all machinery in the MECE Undergraduate Lab and are therefore given the ability to turn on and oversee the machine shop after Working hours.

This is a huge responsibility, as the safety of other students is in the hands of the super user present in the lab space. Please note that being a super user does not mean the super user can work in the shop alone. Working alone with heavy machinery is NEVER a good idea and can lead to life-threatening situations. Another person must always be present in case of emergency.

Super users responsibilities: 

  • Turning on and off the machines outside of lab hours

  • Supervising student machine use

  • Troubleshooting machine failures for common problems

  • Understanding and enforcing cleanliness and safety precautions at all times

  • Knowing how to handle emergency situations, including:

    • Administering first aid 

    • Using fire extinguishers and fire blankets

    • Knowing who to contact in the event of an emergency

  • Creating a safe and welcoming environment for students in the lab

Requirements

 

Pre-Requirements

  • Must be a MECE junior or senior (exceptions for non-MECE and underclassmen are available on a case by case basis)

  • Students must express interest in super user status no later than 4 weeks after the beginning of each semester. Students who express interest after this date will have to wait until the following semester to begin their training to ensure they have enough time to complete all requirements.

  • Must have completed Rascal TC0600 Shop Safety Training and provide proof of certification

Trainings

  • Must demonstrate proficiency on all machines, including laser cutters and hand tools

    • If you have taken Intro to Machining

      • Complete super user machining parts (one on both mills, one on both lathes, and one laser cut keychain)

      • Must be able to replace band saw blade

    • If you have not taken Intro to Machining

      • Complete one-on-one training with lab staff on Fryer mill, Tormach mill, Fryer lathe, Tormach lathe, and laser cutter

      • Complete requirements above (super user parts and bandsaw blade)

    • Attend safety training with lab staff

    • Hold five 2 hour sessions (“contact hours”) in the space answering machining questions for students

Approvals

  • Interview with lab staff and current super users to ensure competency and trustworthiness

  • Demonstrate exceptional levels of responsibility for shop safety and cleanliness

  • Have competence to not only machine but to supervise others while machining and troubleshoot machine issues

  • Create a safe and welcoming work environment for all students in the space

 

If you are interested in becoming a super user, please speak with lab staff no later than the 4th week after a semester begins.