Senior Design Day highlights career-ready engineering talent
The annual event showcased projects that reflect the depth, rigor and real-world focus of their education.
Innovation took center stage on April 16, 2026, as The University of Akron College of Engineering and Polymer Science welcomed nearly 500 attendees to Senior Design Day at the John S. Knight Center. The signature event showcased the culmination of student learning through hands-on, real-world engineering projects that reflect the depth and rigor of the college’s curriculum.
Among those in attendance were 139 high school students from seven regional schools, underscoring the college’s commitment to building early pathways into engineering and providing meaningful exposure to applied problem-solving and innovation.
“It is inspiring to see the culmination of our students’ hard work at Senior Design Day. I am deeply grateful to our faculty and staff who guide and mentor, and to our industry partners who bring relevance and purpose to these projects,” said Dr. Craig Menzemer, dean of the college. “To our students, congratulations on this incredible achievement. You represent the very best of what engineering education can be. Looking forward, the innovation and collaboration showcased here will continue to shape the future of our college and the communities we serve.”
A showcase of real-world engineering
Across disciplines, students presented projects that reflect both technical depth and practical application, mirroring the challenges and expectations they will encounter in their careers.
Biomedical engineering showcased eight capstone teams developing solutions in healthcare innovation, including surgical tools, pediatric training models, a biodegradable stent that releases a drug to prevent scar tissue growth and a modular knee brace. All teams also participated in the NEOvations Bench-to-Bedside competition, with strong support from clinical and industry partners such as Akron Children’s Hospital and Stryker. The department also introduced a cross-functional team that included a mechanical engineering student, reflecting the growing emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration.
Chemical and corrosion engineering students, organized into 11 teams, presented process design projects centered on safety, efficiency and sustainability in chemical systems. As part of the Process Design II course, students demonstrated a level of professionalism aligned with industry and conference expectations. Members of the department’s Industrial Advisory Board served as judges, engaging directly with students and providing real-world feedback on their work.
Civil engineering projects emphasized infrastructure and community impact, with seven teams delivering comprehensive designs that included CAD drawings, 3D renderings and cost estimates. Projects ranged from roadway improvements and residential developments to utility systems and transmission design, reflecting the essential role civil engineers play in shaping safe, functional and sustainable communities.
Electrical and computer engineering students, working in 11 teams, presented systems developed over a three-semester design sequence. Projects ranged from robotics and automation to control and smart systems, including a dashboard developed for the Zips Racing team’s newest vehicle. Faculty advisors guided students from concept through design, build and testing, closely mirroring professional engineering practice.
Electrical and electronic engineering technology students presented nine independently developed projects, designing and building fully functional system prototypes using self-sourced materials. Projects included power supply systems, sensor-based monitoring devices and audio electronics, emphasizing hands-on application, system integration and practical usability.
Aerospace systems engineering and mechanical engineering featured one of the largest showcases, with more than 50 projects spanning robotics, propulsion, advanced manufacturing and energy systems. Supported by industry partners such as Timken, Hendrickson and Schaeffler, students tackled challenges ranging from rocket propulsion to safety systems. Projects were evaluated by industry judges, with top honors awarded across academic, industry-sponsored and innovation categories.
Mechanical engineering technology students completed 13 capstone projects focused on automation, manufacturing and electromechanical system design. Many projects were sponsored by industry partners, while others were faculty-supported or student-initiated. From industrial computer automated training systems to automated manufacturing equipment, the work emphasized hands-on integration and real-world application.
Mathematics contributed an advanced computational research project focused on developing a high-performance numerical solver using modern programming techniques. By building the solver from the ground up, the project connected mathematical theory with efficient, real-world computing applications.
Polymer science and polymer engineering marked a milestone with its first undergraduate design presentation. The project explored how plastics could be combined with Martian soil to create sustainable materials for future space missions, reducing the need to transport resources from Earth. Supported by NASA-related funding and external partners, the work demonstrated how materials engineering can help advance future space exploration.
Learning by doing and inspiring what’s next
Senior Design Day continues to reflect the college’s core philosophy of experiential learning. Students not only demonstrate technical knowledge but also develop communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills essential for success beyond the classroom.
Equally important, the event serves as a powerful bridge to the future. By welcoming high school students and teachers from Cuyahoga Falls High School, Crestview High School, Ellet CLC, Firestone CLC, NIHF STEM High School, Strongsville High School and St. Vincent–St. Mary High School, the college creates early connections to engineering pathways. This allows prospective students to see themselves in these spaces and imagine what they can achieve.
Senior Design Day 2026 was not only a showcase but also a celebration of preparation, partnership and possibility. As graduates take their next steps into industry or advanced study, they carry forward not only the projects they built but the confidence and experience to make an immediate impact.