How We Helped Transform Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High School’s Engineering Lab

Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High School in Washington County, Maryland, recognized the need to upgrade its engineering lab to support its growing student body and enhance hands-on learning. With a spacious area available, the school sought to create a versatile, state-of-the-art lab that could accommodate a variety of engineering disciplines. To achieve this, the school partnered with us to design a lab that would serve all of its engineering students, providing the necessary tools, equipment, and environment to foster innovative learning and practical skills development.

Project Initiation

The project began with a collaborative session involving the school’s instructors and supervisors. We worked together to create a “dream list” that outlined their vision for the new lab. The essential requirements included:

• Specialized workbenches suitable for various engineering tasks
• Ample storage for VEX Robotics parts
• Secure storage for welding materials
• Dedicated space for a 3D printer farm
• A laser cutter and CNC router for advanced manufacturing projects

These requirements guided the design process, ensuring that the new lab would meet the specific needs of the school’s engineering curriculum.

Design and Layout Planning

With the “dream list” in hand, we developed a layout that maximized the use of the available space and integrated all required elements. Key features of the design included:

• Workbenches: We selected high-quality workbenches from Greene Manufacturing, Inc. These workbenches were chosen for their durability and functionality, providing robust surfaces for various engineering tasks such as assembly, testing, and prototyping.
• Storage Solutions: To organize the lab efficiently, we included dedicated storage units for VEX Robotics parts and welding materials. These storage solutions ensured that all components were easily accessible while keeping the lab organized and safe.
• 3D Printer Farm: A significant focus of the lab was the creation of a dedicated 3D printer farm. We allocated space for over 30 3D printers, including models from MakerBot, Ultimaker, and Stratasys. This setup allowed students to explore additive manufacturing and rapidly prototype their designs without time constraints or equipment limitations.
• Additional Equipment: To expand the lab’s capabilities, we incorporated a Universal Systems laser cutter and a Forest Scientific HS CNC router. These tools provided students with the ability to engage in advanced manufacturing processes, such as cutting, engraving, and machining, further enhancing their learning experience.
• Adjacent Classroom: To complement the hands-on lab, we also supplied furniture for an adjacent classroom. This space allowed for seamless integration of theoretical learning with practical application, providing a comprehensive educational environment.

Implementation and Installation

Following the finalization of the design, we proceeded with the implementation phase. Our team managed the delivery and installation of all furniture and equipment, ensuring that the lab was set up according to the approved layout. Each workbench, storage unit, and piece of equipment was positioned to facilitate workflow and enhance the learning experience.

The installation of the 3D printer farm was a highlight, with the fleet of printers making Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High School the school with the most 3D printers in a single room within the entire district. This capability not only supports individual and group projects but also enables the school to contribute to the community.

Outcome

The newly renovated engineering lab at Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High School has become a hub of innovation and learning. The lab’s comprehensive setup supports a wide range of engineering activities, from robotics and welding to 3D printing and CNC machining. The extensive 3D printer farm allows students to design and produce complex parts and prototypes, giving them practical experience with cutting-edge technology.

The lab’s unique capabilities have also enabled the school to assist the local community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school collaborated with a local hospital to produce thousands of face shields using their 3D printers. This initiative showcased the lab’s potential to address real-world challenges and highlighted the importance of integrating advanced technology into educational settings.

Conclusion

This case study illustrates the value of designing educational spaces that cater to specific needs and aspirations. By partnering with Boyd J. Michael, III Technical High School, we were able to deliver a state-of-the-art engineering lab that not only meets the school’s current needs but also positions it as a leader in technical education within the district. The successful renovation of the lab underscores our commitment to enhancing learning environments and empowering students to succeed in engineering and technology careers.