Engineering Design in Action: Lessons from Racing

Oakwood School's 4th grade students welcomed Jensen Beeler, Director of Strategic Programs at Lightfighter, Inc., to their Technology class as they concluded their computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D printing unit. He shared insights from his career and encouraged them to embrace "progress, not perfection" as they continue their paths through school and into future careers. Students connected their classroom learning to real-world applications of CAD and 3D prototyping, seeing how the process they followed (from brainstorming an idea to creating a physical product) is the same one used in industry. They learned how designers and engineers rely on an iterative process to test, refine, and improve their ideas, and how CAD and 3D printing can reduce development time and costs. The visit sparked curiosity, with students asking thoughtful questions about product development, manufacturing, and, of course, Mr. Beeler's motorcycle racing experience.

4th Grade Technology Enrichment Photo Album