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Engineering Primer PLUS Program - MakerspaceCT

Engineering Primer PLUS Program

Saturdays, March 14th through May 30th.

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The Engineering Primer Plus Program (EPP Plus) is a cost-free program for high school students (ages 14–18) who are ready to advance beyond the basics of engineering and product design. The Spring 2026 cohort begins in March and the application is open now! Contact us at info@makerspacect.com with any questions.

About the Program

This program builds on the foundation of the Engineering Primer Program by introducing more in-depth CAD design, automation systems, and Industry 4.0 concepts. Students will design and fabricate advanced prototypes while gaining exposure to the modern tools and processes driving today’s manufacturing sector.

Who Qualifies?

  • CT Resident
  • Age 14-18 as of March 2026
  • Able to attend all sessions and complete all assignments
Students must have either:
✓ Successfully completed a previous Engineering Primer Program at MakerspaceCT, OR
✓ At least two semesters of CAD coursework on their transcript.

Program Curriculum

Advanced CAD

ADVANCED CAD DESIGN

Deep dive into parametric modeling, assemblies, and design-for-manufacturing workflows. Move beyond simple sketches into complex digital modeling.

3D Printing

3D PRINTING & ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING

Advanced applications of additive manufacturing, including part orientation, troubleshooting, and post-processing. Explore real-world prototyping strategies used in industry.

Automation

AUTOMATION & INDUSTRY 4.0 SYSTEMS

Learn how automation, robotics, and sensors are applied in modern manufacturing. Gain hands-on experience with systems aligned to Industry 4.0 standards.

Electronics

ELECTRONICS & INTEGRATION

Soldering and assembly of more complex electronic components. Apply electronics within functional product builds.

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Engineering Primer PLUS Program - Spring 2026 - SATURDAY Group

Program Length: 12 Weeks

Dates: Saturdays, March 14th through May 30th (View Schedule Detail)

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Our Location

Engineering Primer PLUS Program is offered by MakerspaceCT in Hartford.

Location: 36 Talcott Street, Hartford, CT 06103

Funding For This Program Generously Provided by:

Program Schedule

Please check your calendar and confirm that you are available to attend these dates.

Overview

  • Start: Saturday, March 14, 2026
  • End: Saturday, May 30, 2026
  • 12 Saturdays, 10:00am – 3:00pm (EDT)

March

  • #1 Sat 3/14
  • #2 Sat 3/21
  • #3 Sat 3/28

April

  • #4 Sat 4/4
  • #5 Sat 4/11
  • #6 Sat 4/18
  • #7 Sat 4/25

May

  • #8 Sat 5/2
  • #9 Sat 5/9
  • #10 Sat 5/16
  • #11 Sat 5/23
  • #12 Sat 5/30

Questions about this program?

If you have questions, please contact us.

Contact Us

About MakerspaceCT

MakerspaceCT is a program of McEIVR, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit.

Our mission is to positively impact lives by enabling access, innovation, and education.

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Explore More Programs From MakerspaceCT:

MAKE'N'ABLE Engineering Fundamentals (EFC) Engineering Primer Program

© 2026 MakerspaceCT. All rights reserved.

Choose ONE of these spring cohorts:

  • Engineering Primer Program PLUS - Spring 2026 - Saturday Group

    • Saturday, March 14, 2026
    • Saturday, May 30, 2026
    • 12 sessions
    • 36 Talcott Street, Hartford CT 06103
    • 1
    Register

      ENGINEERING PRIMER PLUS PROGRAM

      The Engineering Primer Plus Program is designed for students currently enrolled in high school who are ready to take their skills to the next level. Our team introduces the many aspects of product creation, engineering, and manufacturing—while expanding into advanced concepts that prepare students for the future of Industry 4.0. Students will design and produce working prototypes, gain exposure to in-depth CAD and automation tools, and participate in site visits to local manufacturers throughout the fall.

      While diving into each step, students build confidence using the natural flow of product design, and take ownership of the parts they produce. The program helps young people understand how everyday objects are made, and how creative ideas can be transformed into real products.

      With the growing shortage of hands-on, creative talent, this program prepares students for careers in Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Advanced Manufacturing.

      We promise new skills that open minds, broaden opportunities, and help young adults think creatively about their futures.

      ELIGIBILITY

      Students must have either:

      • Successfully completed a previous Engineering Primer Program at MakerspaceCT, OR

      • At least two semesters of CAD coursework on their transcript.

      AREAS OF STUDY

      DESIGN IT with CAD (Advanced)

      • A product development overview starting with sketching and blueprint study, moving into advanced digital modeling.

      • Students will gain deeper experience in CAD, learning parametric design, assemblies, and design-for-manufacturing workflows.

      CREATE IT with 3D PRINTERS

      • Explore additive manufacturing in detail, including preparation, editing, and printing of parts.

      • Students will learn strategies for precision, part orientation, and post-processing techniques.

      AUTOMATE IT: Industry 4.0 Systems

      • Introduction to automating manufacturing systems to align with Industry 4.0 standards.

      • Students will work with sensors, robotics, and control systems to understand how automation drives modern production.

      ELECTRIFY IT

      • Hands-on lab experience soldering and assembling electronic components.

      • Explore circuits, wiring, displays, and integration of electronics into functional prototypes.

      SITE VISITS

      Throughout the fall, students will take part in several site visits to manufacturers. These visits connect classroom learning to real-world applications, allowing students to see firsthand how CAD, automation, and fabrication are applied in industry.

      SCHEDULE

      Saturday Group meets March 14th through May 30th.
      Each session runs 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

      This program is open to Connecticut high school students, ages 14–18.
      The training is cost-free, in-person, and on-site at MakerspaceCT in Downtown Hartford.

      LOCATION

      MakerspaceCT
      36 Talcott Street
      Hartford, CT 06119

      FUNDING

      This program is generously funded by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving.

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