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Focus Areas

As a student in this broad field, you will become adept at computer-aided design (CAD) software, rapid prototyping facilities, and equipment such as computer numerical control (CNC) milling and injection molding machines. Your work in this area may focus on product design and prototype development, or you may be more interested in working on the systems that make manufacturing and construction possible. Regardless of your specific focus, you’ll invent, design and bring to life new processes, better systems, and innovative products and structures.

Student projects and interests may focus on these topics:

  • vehicle modeling and novel materials for lighter, stronger design
  • energy conversion and control of subsequent forces/motion; think about combustion engines, rocket propulsion, even bicycle systems
  • construction of bridges, buildings, and transportation systems that can withstand earthquakes, fire, and other hazards
  • efficient consumer distribution systems for drinking water, electricity, natural gas, etc.
  • robotics, automation, industrial information systems and manufacturing/supply-chain technology