A place like nowhere else

23 DECEMBER, 2024 | By Beatriz Martinez Sutil & Marija Majstorovic

At CERN, you meet all kinds of people each day and sometimes, they are particularly interesting. It all started on 14 November, we attended a laser cutting and 3D printing course at IdeaSquare – a mix of learning and fun! Our first task was using the laser cutter to create custom keychains. With Dina, our instructor, guiding us through setup, design alignment, and machine preparation, we quickly got the hang of it.

While our designs printed (each taking about 30 minutes), we decided to learn more about 3D printing and Dušan and Naini, who already had some experience, kept an eye on the laser cutter. Upstairs, as we explored 3D printing, an unexpected encounter turned the day into something truly unforgettable.

A man approached Dina with a design he wanted to print, offering us a perfect hands-on learning opportunity. As we reviewed his design, Dina revealed his identity – is was no one else than Robert Cailliau, one of the inventors of the World Wide Web! Naturally, we took the chance to chat with him. He was incredibly kind and even asked us to print four copies of his design: one each for us, Dina, and himself. You can spot the result – a dinosaur – displayed proudly in our office.

When our colleagues returned, we wrapped up the day with this group photo to commemorate the experience. It’s a moment we’ll cherish and surely retell at every Christmas dinner – what a day to remember!