Jonathan Shirley introduces the LEED Center's new REDII Works FabLab

By Marie Elizabeth Oliver

Published June 1, 2026 at 1:34 PM CDT

Jonathan Shirley, programs and operations director at Louisiana Entrepreneurship & Economic Development (LEED) Center, joins La Louisiane to discuss their new space — the REDII Works FabLab — and how the center helps people bring their ideas to life.

Located in the LITE Center, the new space is open to the public and members of the University community and includes 3D printers, computers, a vinyl cutter and a laser cutter and engraver for prototyping, design and small-scale production.

Read the edited transcript between Jonathan Shirley and Marie Elizabeth Oliver here.

La Louisiane

Marie Elizabeth Oliver

Marie Elizabeth Oliver is an award-winning editor and journalist. Her work has been featured by The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN and Southern Living. She has taught journalism and served as the managing editor and podcast host of La Louisiane at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Her local reporting has been published by The Current, Acadiana Profile and New Orleans Public Radio.

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