The Innovation Factory at Penn State Altoona
Seniors enrolled in Penn State Altoona’s Electro-mechanical Engineering Technology (EMET) degree program have the opportunity to participate in a unique senior project that spans two 15-week semesters. This timeframe allows students to expand the project duration to either winter or summer break if necessary. Students are energized to design projects that incorporate the use of three components—electrical, mechanical and programming. The students then research the project idea, design the project, source the materials, build the design, and operate and test the final project. The most successful projects feature a detailed description with clear and concise objectives. During the first semester, students will design and purchase any necessary components. Building and testing will occur during the second semester, along with the capstone presentation.
Ideally, industry sponsors should submit a project idea 8 weeks prior to the semester in which the project will be initiated, since Penn State Altoona currently requires students to use mechanical, electrical, and programming in their senior design projects. Spring to fall semester projects provide the industry sponsor with an opportunity to continue the project during summer break through an internship or stipend for the students. The final design presentations are made during the last day of classes before finals.