Here to Help

Her passion as an artist and the desire to help people succeed on their projects is what Perla Vargas brings daily to UTA Libraries. Perla is the new FabLab Coordinator, but she started working at the library as a student.  

 She was introduced to the FabLab while taking a digital media class. While working in the maker space on her project, Vargas started helping others with the equipment. This action caught the attention of Morgan Chivers, FabLab Librarian, who talked with her about becoming part of the team at the library.  

 "Through that experience of getting that project done within the FabLab, it was my first time being in a maker's space or knowing what a maker's space was. I was mainly introduced to traditional fabrication. So digital fabrication was new to me, and I loved it," Vargas said. "I was offered a position because I was helping one of my classmates finish her project last minute. Half of our class was there, and the entire FabLab was full. I was just offering my assistance because I like to do that."  

 Perla started working in the FabLab, learning from Morgan. Six months into her job, she was promoted to student lead and served in that role for the next three to four years. Working in that role allowed Perla to help others, teach, learn, and get to know people from across the university. She credits that desire to help people to her parent's example.  

 Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2022, Perla saw there was a position opening as the coordinator of the FabLab. Since joining as a full-time staff member, there has been a lot of support from everyone, making the transition easy.  

 "As coordinator, there is a lot of administrative work—scheduling, training, outreach programs, curating events for the FabLab. Coordinating with the other side of the first floor," Perla said. "We are trying to create more programs and events that encompass the entire first floor or all creative studios. 

 One of the significant events that she got to help with was Camp Cosmos. Camp Cosmos During the camp, children ages 9-12, could utilize technology at the library's FabLab, Studios, and videogame basement to do space-themed activities. She is proud of the event; everyone working together made it a great success.  

 "Overall, I think that it went well. It was our first go. The first one, you are always going to come across some hiccups and things that you could do better," she said. "There is always room for growth in that first time. Overall, it went smoothly. It was great.  

In her role as coordinator, Perla looks to help the staff at the FabLab gain more knowledge of the different equipment available for students to use, like the 3D printers, laser cutters, kilns, sewing machines, and screen printers in the 8,000-square-foot makerspace. This training will allow the staff to help students on their projects in a greater capacity. 

 "I love teaching. I love learning. I love interpersonal connections and getting to know people and empowering them," Perla said. "There is power in knowledge."