This program offers learners the opportunity to collaborate with industry professionals on real-world, open-ended engineering design challenges, emphasizing human-centered and sustainable solutions. Participants will leverage their skills in Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and interdisciplinary teamwork to develop innovative prototypes. The course aims to enhance professional communication and project management skills, preparing learners to address complex engineering problems with a focus on sustainability.

This experience is a part of the CCA AI Readiness Consortium. Through employer-educator partnership this experience will bring AI competencies into curricula. Students will apply AI tools and skills to complete project deliverables and drive value for your organization.

Expected Outcomes and Deliverables. Please keep in mind that these are targeted deliverables.

Insight-Driven Problem Definition

Conduct focused research and stakeholder interviews to frame a clear, data-supported engineering brief.

Rapid, Iterative Solution Development

Run two-to-three design sprints—sketch, prototype, test, refine—to converge on a practical concept.

Professional-Grade Project Management & Execution

Apply industry-standard CAD, analysis tools, and documentation while tracking schedule, budget, and risk.

Stakeholder-Validated Decision Making

Engage key users and technical advisors, using quantitative scoring and qualitative feedback to select the best alternative.

Multi-Audience Communication of Results

Package technical findings into concise, business-ready narratives for engineers, managers, and executives.

Potential Deliverables

• Problem Definition Brief summarizing needs, constraints, and success metrics.
• Excel/CSV of raw research findings and coded themes.
• Concept Portfolio of annotated sketches and design-iteration rationale.
• Prototype Files ready for 3-D printing or simulation.
• Live Project Tracker with milestones, budget, and resource status.
• Stakeholder Engagement Summary capturing insights, concerns, and approval status.
• Decision Matrix with weighted criteria, scoring, and final recommendation.
• Final Design Package (executive summary, detailed drawing set, cost model)
• Presentation Deck with visuals, speaker notes, and call-to-action slide.
• Archived CAD & Analysis Files for seamless hand-off to your engineering team.