Summer Workshop Series 2026
Event Overview
Spend your summer building technical skills with BEARS’ comprehensive workshop series! Over six weeks, you’ll gain hands-on experience with essential engineering tools and technologies through project-based learning. No prerequisites required - all skill levels welcome!
Program Structure
Duration: 6 weeks (June 10 - July 22) Format: 2 sessions per week (Tuesday & Thursday evenings) Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Total: 12 workshops, 36 hours of instruction
Each workshop includes:
- 30-minute interactive lecture
- 2-hour guided hands-on project
- 30-minute Q&A and open lab time
- Take-home challenges (optional)
Workshop Schedule
Week 1: CAD & Design Fundamentals
Tuesday, June 10 - Introduction to 3D CAD
- Fusion 360 basics and interface
- Sketching and constraint-based modeling
- Project: Design a custom rocket fin
- Tools: Autodesk Fusion 360 (free student license)
Thursday, June 12 - Advanced CAD Techniques
- Parametric design and assemblies
- Rendering and technical drawings
- Project: Complete mini drone frame design
- Export files for 3D printing
Week 2: Electronics Fundamentals
Tuesday, June 17 - Electronics Basics
- Voltage, current, resistance fundamentals
- Reading schematics and datasheets
- Project: Build LED circuit with switch
- Tools: Breadboard, multimeter, components
Thursday, June 19 - Sensors and Actuators
- Temperature, pressure, and motion sensors
- Motors, servos, and relays
- Project: Temperature-controlled fan system
- Introduction to analog vs digital signals
Week 3: Embedded Programming I
Tuesday, June 24 - Arduino Basics
- Microcontroller fundamentals
- Digital I/O and LED control
- Project: Traffic light system
- Tools: Arduino Uno, Arduino IDE
Thursday, June 26 - Analog Input & PWM
- Reading sensor data
- Pulse-width modulation for motor control
- Project: Servo motor control with potentiometer
- Serial communication and debugging
Week 4: Embedded Programming II
Tuesday, July 1 - Advanced Arduino
- Libraries and external modules
- I2C and SPI communication
- Project: LCD display with sensor readout
- State machines and program structure
Thursday, July 3 - Wireless Communication
- Bluetooth and WiFi modules
- Data transmission basics
- Project: Remote sensor monitoring
- Introduction to IoT concepts
Week 5: Rapid Prototyping
Tuesday, July 8 - 3D Printing Workshop
- Slicing software and print settings
- Support structures and orientation
- Project: Print your Week 1 CAD design
- Post-processing and finishing
Thursday, July 10 - Laser Cutting & CNC
- Vector vs raster operations
- Material selection and settings
- Project: Custom electronics enclosure
- Tools: Laser cutter, CNC introduction
Week 6: Integration Project
Tuesday, July 15 - System Integration
- Combining electronics, code, and mechanics
- Troubleshooting and debugging strategies
- Project: Start final capstone project
- Teams form for collaborative work
Thursday, July 22 - Final Project Showcase
- Complete and present capstone projects
- Peer feedback and demonstrations
- Certificate ceremony
- Networking with industry mentors
Capstone Project Options
Choose one to complete during Week 6:
- Weather Station - IoT device with multiple sensors
- Line-Following Robot - Autonomous navigation
- Smart Plant Monitor - Automated watering system
- Custom Drone Component - Design and build
- Your Own Idea - Propose and execute
What’s Included
Registration includes:
- All workshop materials and components
- Arduino starter kit (yours to keep!)
- Component kit with sensors and parts
- Software licenses (Fusion 360, etc.)
- 3D printing credits ($50 value)
- Laser cutting time
- Workshop manual and reference guides
- Certificate of completion
- BEARS workshop t-shirt
Value: Over $300 in materials and resources!
Prerequisites & Requirements
No experience required! We’ll teach you from scratch.
Helpful but not required:
- Basic computer skills
- Interest in building and making
- Curiosity and willingness to learn
What to bring:
- Laptop (Windows, Mac, or Linux)
- USB cable (for Arduino)
- Notebook for taking notes
- Enthusiasm!
Who Should Attend
This workshop series is perfect for:
- Students new to engineering and making
- Those looking to build practical skills
- Future BEARS project team members
- Anyone curious about hardware and software
- High school students considering engineering
All majors and backgrounds welcome!
Registration
Pricing:
- BEARS Members: $100
- University Students: $150
- High School Students: $125
- Community Members: $200
Early Bird Discount: Register by May 25th and save $25!
Capacity: Limited to 30 participants for optimal hands-on experience
Payment plans available - Contact us for details
Location & Facilities
Venue: Engineering Makerspace - Room 150
- 3D printers and laser cutters
- Electronics workbenches
- Computer stations with CAD software
- Tool library and storage lockers
- Climate-controlled environment
Parking: Student lot E (free evening parking after 5 PM)
Instructors
Led by experienced BEARS members and industry professionals:
- Dr. Sarah Chen - Mechanical Engineering Professor
- Alex Martinez - Electronics Engineer at Boeing
- Jamie Thompson - Software Developer & Arduino Expert
- Student Teaching Assistants - BEARS senior members
Attendance & Make-Up Sessions
- Attend at least 10 of 12 workshops for certificate
- Recordings available for missed sessions
- Make-up lab hours on Saturdays
- Materials can be checked out for practice
After the Workshop
Graduates of the workshop series will:
- Have foundational skills for BEARS projects
- Receive priority consideration for project teams
- Access to makerspace after hours (with training)
- Invitation to advanced workshops in fall
- Connection to BEARS mentorship program
Testimonials
“I came in knowing nothing about electronics and left building my own Arduino projects!” - Alex, 2025 participant
“The hands-on approach made learning so much easier. I actually understood what I was doing.” - Maria, 2025 participant
“Best summer decision I made. The skills I learned directly helped me land an internship.” - Chris, 2024 participant
Registration
Deadline: June 3rd (or when capacity fills)
How to register:
- Visit bears-workshops.com
- Complete online registration form
- Submit payment
- Receive confirmation email with prep instructions
Questions?
- Email: workshops@bears.edu
- Drop by: Engineering Building Room 204
- Office hours: Mon-Fri 1-4 PM
FAQ
Q: What if I miss a session? A: Recordings and materials are available. Make-up labs on Saturdays.
Q: Can I just attend specific workshops? A: The series builds on itself, so full attendance recommended. Individual workshops: $25 each.
Q: Do I need to bring my own laptop? A: Yes, for CAD and programming sessions. Lab computers available if needed.
Q: What if I’m not an engineering student? A: Perfect! We welcome all majors and backgrounds.
Q: Will there be food? A: Snacks and beverages provided. Dinner break from 7-7:15 PM.
Sponsors
Thanks to our workshop sponsors:
- Autodesk - CAD software licenses
- Arduino - Starter kits and components
- University Makerspace - Facility and equipment
- Local Tech Companies - Mentors and funding
Don’t miss this opportunity to build valuable skills this summer!
Register now at bears-workshops.com