About
Mission
The Physics Trades Teaching Lab is a space for innovation. We are a manufacturing resource for CU students, research staff and faculty. Our facilities allow students and staff to accomplish their research goals through hands on manufacturing and prototyping of components and systems. The professionals in the shop instruct groups of students in the safe and proper use of machine tools and monitor student activities in the shop.
Finding Us
The Physics Trades Teaching Lab is located in the C-wing on the main level of Duane Physics Building, Rm C1B29.
Physics Trades Teaching Lab History
The Physics Trades Teaching Lab was originally the Staff Shop for the Physics Department. The PTTL was founded as a teaching facility in 1994 by Sid Gustafson. Sid re-organized the staff shop as a teaching facility for manual machining, welding and fabrication. Sid's perspective of safety, theory and most effectively, very "hands-on" lesson plans served as a solid foundation for the development of similar facilities in universities like M.I.T and Georgia Tech. Ìý
In 2011 Craig Joy joined as a second instructor in the Trades Teaching Lab, splitting his time between teaching students in the Physics Trades Teaching Lab and building scientific instruments for the Physics Precision Instrument Shop directly across the hallway. Craig took over as director after Sid Gustafson retired from teaching in 2013. Craig continued to teach until his retirement at the end of May 2021 after 10 years in the PTTL, leaving students with fondest memories of his patience and knowledge and purpose.
Paul Wingrove took over from Craig in June 2021. Paul was a machinist in the Precision Instrument Shop also, spending 7 years there before taking over from Craig. Paul was highly regarded among colleagues and students alike for his charisma, knowledge, and enthusiasm for helping students. Paul retired in July 2024 after almost 11 years with the physics department. Ìý
Staff
Alex MacIsaac
Role: Shop Manager
Office: C1B29A (Inside shop)
Contact: alexander.macisaac@colorado.edu
Student Staff/TA
Logan Blankinship
Role: Shop Assistant/TA