Could our region’s increasingly vacant shopping malls become a place where customers build rather than buy? Local maker and entrepreneur Aaron Hartman thinks so.
Last week, area business and political leaders joined Hartman at South Hills Village mall to celebrate the opening of Creation Labs, a maker space stocked with high-tech tools like 3D printers, modeling software and laser cutters.

Hartman (holding scissors) at the ribbon-cutting event with PA State Representative Natalie Mihalek and Bethel Park Mayor Jack Allen. Photo courtesy of Peters Township Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to selling 3D printing equipment and specially designed gadgets, Creation Labs sells memberships giving makers access to all on-site tools. A part-time teaching staff also offers classes ranging from basic modeling to more advanced engineering.
Hartman tells…