Get Connected
A human-centered approach, Ground Connection’s resources are for you. They are here for you to play, tinker, experiment, research, learn, fail, and innovate.
Whether you are here of your own curiosity, as a member of a class, or as part of a student organization, you have the power to make connections across disciplines with a simple “hello”. We have an experienced and passionate staff ready to help with whatever project you’ve got going on. Say hello the next time you’re in one of our spaces – we’d love to meet you!
Ground Connections spaces and resources may have limited hours due to maintenance and remodeling activites. Check back here for updates.
Student Fellowship Program
We hire students! Our current posting can be found on the Student Employment Opportunities site Job ID 67035 (U-M login required).
The Ground Connections Fellowship position at the Duderstadt Center is a unique opportunity to work in a technology-rich, student-centered, collaborative environment, where your strongest asset will be your desire to learn. Fellows can expect to learn and work in all Ground Connections spaces and resources, including the Fabrication Studio, Design Lab 1, Gallery, and Groundworks.
Student Organizations
Student organizations are welcome to use our spaces and resources, with the expectation that they will be active and responsible members of the GC community.
The Michigan Animation Club, 3D Printing Club, UMIGV, Tabletop Gaming Club, VEX Team HAIL, and Zero Di-M-ension are some student organizations to have recently held regular meetings, workshops, and other events with us.
Start the conversation: gc-studentorgs@umich.edu
Consulting and Mentoring
Our professional staff have expertise in digital modeling, fabrication, 3D printing, image creation, video and audio production, exhibit design, and more. We can help design assignments or plan activities using DMC resources remotely or in COVID-safe physical space.
For complex student projects, we offer quick or longterm consulting, mentoring or project management, as appropriate.
Online Tutorials
Our online resources are published as Canvas modules and can be added to your course page. They can also be completed by any UM Community member interested in using our resources. Supplimentary materials can be found in our Ground Connections knowledge base.
Class Instruction
Our course support can include live presentations directly related to your learning goals and connecting students to our technologies and the support staff who can help them as they complete assignments. We are also happy to participate in in-class design reviews or other interactive class sessions. When in-person class meetings aren’t allowed, we may be able to meet your students in a hybrid or online classroom. Contact us at DC-Training@umich.edu to discuss your interests.
Grants & Fellowships
Ground Connections promotes student projects through grants, fellowships and dedicated access to our resources, when funding allows. Learn more about available opportunities.