Berkshire Science Commons

The Berkshire Science Commons is a crossroads for science on campus and for the communities we serve. The equipment and space of the Science Commons is a place where scientists and learners can come together to explore, create, and research together.

Equipment Reservations

Work spaces within the Science Commons can be reserved for projects whether they are class assignments, group efforts, or personal design projects. Reservations are recommended to avoid a work space being occupied when you arrive to use it. All users must be certified for use of a machine before they can safely use it.

Calendar of Reservations

Contact Us

science-commons@berkshirecc.edu

Berkshire Science Commons with neon sign and several machines

Check Out Beekeeping at BCC with the State of the Hive Blog!

BCC has started keeping bees on one of our building roofs, exploring the relationship between animal populations and the local ecosystem. Check out regular updates here (opens a new window).

Spaces in the Science Commons

The Berkshire Science Commons is divided into three spaces, each of which can be reserved as a whole for classes and demonstrations.

  • The first area accessible from the north door, the entrance most likely to be used by BCC personnel and students, is the Seminar Space. This space has modular tables, room for studying, AV capabilities, and a small hospitality area for hosting meetings.
  • In the middle is the Technology Space, a working area with the majority of the Science Commons's machines and tools. This is a busy area with plenty of creative and technical opportunities.
  • The third bay is the Discovery Lab, a space for citizen science projects and other projects with chemical or biological focuses. Like the Technology Space, this is a modular space that can be reconfigured as needed

Image of the three bays of the Berkshire Science Commons

Tools We Have

The Berkshire Science Commons has the following equipment ready for use in your science and engineering project!

Computer Numerical Control: Automated tools used with computer-assisted design

Woodworking and Metalworking: Manual machines for cutting and drilling different materials

Machine Finishing: Tools for finishing projects and removing burrs and smoothing surfaces

Robotics and Virtual Reality: For now, only available to BCC community

  • DJI Mavic Drone
  • Meta Quest 2 goggles

Water Quality Testing: Equipment for our environmental testing program

Makerspace Tools: Machines used primarily for Community Education and Workforce Development projects