The Chicago Industrial Arts & Design Center (CIADC) was founded in 2014 to fill a void in Chicagoland. We are a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization with a Mission to provide education and access to those interested in creating objects using industrial materials, processes, and tools.

We have 4 fully outfitted Shops in Metal Casting, Metalworking & Forging, CNC Fabrication, and Woodworking, and welcome everyone no matter the skill-level or interest. We offer programming for Youth in grades 6-12 and Adults ages 16+.

We operate year-round with unique programming offered during the Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall terms.

Enroll in Classes to learn to work safely and effectively. Work in the Shops outside of Class time during Open Studio Access (OSA). Utilize Private Instruction and/or Member Services as additional resources.

TO BE ACTIVE AT CIADC EACH TERM, NEW AND FORMER STUDENTS SHOULD EVALUATE HOW TO BEST TAKE ADVANTAGE OF CIADC’S EDUCATION AND ACCESS PROGRAMMING

(click on the decision flowchart at the upper left -or- read below)

NEW TO CIADC?

Welcome!

Enroll in a Class in the Department Shop(s) of interest.
Yes, even those that have experience. Our group Classes serve a few purposes: 1) as a vehicle to learn safety, proper tool use, skill, and various ways to work the material, 2) as an orientation to the Shop and our safety protocols, 3) as the initial certification to use Open Studio Access (OSA) work time outside of Class time in that Shop

At any point, new Students can join as a Member and take advantage of Open Studio Access (OSA) work time in the Shop of their Class throughout the current term. Become an Annual Member at time of registration and save on Class cost!

Utilize Private Instruction and/or Member Services as additional resources.

RETURNING TO CIADC?

Welcome back!

Option 1: Enroll in a Class in the same Shop.
Become more comfortable and learn advanced skills. Have the ear of the instructor for individual projects. At any point, Students can join as a Member and take advantage of Open Studio Access (OSA) work time in the Shop of their Class throughout the current term. Become an Annual Member at time of registration and save on Class cost!

Option 2: Enroll in a Class in a different Shop.
Learn to work a different material and gain initial certification to use Open Studio Access (OSA) in that Shop. CIADC is a complete facility. Have the resources to choose the best material(s) and process(es) for any project idea! At any point, Students can join as a Member and take advantage of Open Studio Access (OSA) work time in the Shop of their Class throughout the current term. Register and complete the Student Member Safety & Tool Use Certification (STUC) to re-certify to use OSA in all Shops of previous Classes throughout the term too. Become an Annual Member at time of registration and save on Class cost!

Option 3: Just pay to use Open Studio Access (OSA) in the Shop(s) of previous Class(es).
Former Students who are current Members can register and complete the Access Member Safety & Tool Use Certification (STUC) to re-certify to use OSA in all Shops of previous Classes throughout the term. Access Members pre-pay for OSA vouchers at the time of STUC registration.

Utilize Private Instruction and/or Member Services as additional resources.