"Opportunity is missed by most
people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work."
- Thomas
Alva Edison
"The creator of the universe works in mysterious
ways. But he uses a base ten counting system and likes round numbers."
-Scott
Adams
"The most exciting phrase to
hear in science, the one that heralds new discoveries, is not "Eureka!" ("I
found it!") but rather "hmm....that's funny..."
-Isaac Asimov
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 While it's possible to spend four years at Gettysburg
without ever stepping into the Department's Tech Room or
workshop
(Masters
104), it is very unlikely. It is more likely that you will become involved
in building apparatus for a particular project and spend many afternoons
there, getting your hands dirty and learning new aspects of Murphy's Law.
In addition to power machinery such as lathes, drill presses and milling
machines, the Tech Room is equipped with welding equipment and a large
selection of hand tools. as well as suppliesof metal bar and sheet stock.
Woodworking facilities are limited, but for such needs we have access to
the College's Facilities Services carpentry shop. Over the years, our capabilities
have sufficiently improved to the point that it is an unusual job that
cannot be handled here.
The Tech Room, under the direction of Gary Hummer, the Department's
technician, is devoted to special student and faculty research, as well
as to routine maintenance. Much of the equipment used in the elementary
laboratories was constructed or modified in the Tech Room. If you are interested,
you are encouraged to develop your own projects and build your own apparatus.
While run with a minimum of formality, we do have some rules. If
you need something constructed or need to borrow tools, check first with
Mr. Hummer. If you wish to do your own work, he will be your guide, as
well as determine your ability to use the necessary equipment. It is your
responsibility to cooperate in following safety regulations and in keeping
the Tech Room clean. Safety is paramount! Mr. Hummer is in charge and will
make you aware of what is expected. He can also offer some help in design
and in the use of tools. You must, of course, be checked out on the power
tools before being given permission to use them.
There is another possibility for doing tech work: the Physics Department
likes to hire assistants who will spend at least part of their working
time in the Tech Room. There is a lot of flexibility and specific arrangements
depend on your interests, talents and opportunity, and on the needs of
the Physics Department.
Back to
Guide to Physics
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