Slippery Rock High School students just wrapped up their Manufacturing Innovation Challenge (MIC) project with Keystone Ridge Designs. Their final presentations showed strong ideas, teamwork, and creativity.
Students worked in four groups to design new commercial furniture. Each team identified a problem and created a solution.
- One group designed a planter for Slippery Rock University. It was shaped like the “S” in the SRU logo and included built-in seating. The goal was to create a space where students can gather and relax in a busy area.
- Another group focused on city use. They created a bench that also works as a bike rack. This gives cyclists a place to rest while keeping their bikes secure.
- A third team improved athletic sideline benches. Their design added more comfort and space for personal items. It created a balance between standard high school benches and more advanced professional setups.
- The fourth group designed a bench with storage underneath for backpacks and other items. They also added rotating tables that swing out for studying, eating, or group work.
Throughout the project, students completed market research, sketched their ideas, and worked as teams to build their designs. They used Fusion to model their concepts, and some groups created 3D-printed prototypes.
The final presentations were clear and professional. Keystone Ridge Designs asked thoughtful, challenging questions that pushed students to think deeper about their work.
Overall, it was a strong experience and a great example of learning in action!
Thank you to Mr. Motta and the Keystone Ridge Designs team for making this such a successful project and meaningful experience for the students.
