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:
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Successfully completed a previous Engineering Primer Program at MakerspaceCT, OR
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At least two semesters of CAD coursework on their transcript.
AREAS OF STUDY
DESIGN IT with CAD (Advanced)
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A product development overview starting with sketching and blueprint study, moving into advanced digital modeling.
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Students will gain deeper experience in CAD, learning parametric design, assemblies, and design-for-manufacturing workflows.
CREATE IT with 3D PRINTERS
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Explore additive manufacturing in detail, including preparation, editing, and printing of parts.
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Students will learn strategies for precision, part orientation, and post-processing techniques.
AUTOMATE IT: Industry 4.0 Systems
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Introduction to automating manufacturing systems to align with Industry 4.0 standards.
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Students will work with sensors, robotics, and control systems to understand how automation drives modern production.
ELECTRIFY IT
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Hands-on lab experience soldering and assembling electronic components.
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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 October 18th through January 10th.
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.
