Burrell High School students recently wrapped up their Manufacturing Innovation Challenge (MIC) project with EPD Electronics. Their final presentations showed exactly what this program is meant to do. Students worked on real challenges and delivered solutions that matter.
This year, students took on two projects.
The first team created a protective cover for a fragile viewing prism. EPD uses this tool to inspect complex circuit board components. It is expensive and easy to damage. The students designed a cover to protect it and also built a custom storage box to keep everything organized and safe.
The second team focused on automation. They designed a fixture to hold a soldering iron and solder feeder on an overhead gantry robot. EPD plans to use this setup for a high-volume project launching this summer. The design helps support a more efficient and consistent process.
The impact of this work was clear. EPD shared that the student prototypes gave their team a strong starting point. In some cases, these projects may not have moved forward this year because of other priorities. The students helped push them ahead and reduced early trial and error.
This is what makes the MIC program so valuable. Students apply what they learn in a real setting. Companies gain new ideas and real progress on projects that need attention.
Thank you to Mr. Zanella and Ms. Hotzman for guiding the students. And thank you to EPD Electronics for continuing to support this program!
