Sharjah24: Building a working robot and making a 3D printer hammer are just some of the highlights of the recent Mechanical Engineering Boot Camp for high school students held at American University of Sharjah (AUS).

“The bootcamp is part of the College of Engineering’s (CEN) commitment towards supporting the UAE Centennial Plan 2071, particularly the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence (AI). By engaging with future generations and introducing them to some of the most cutting-edge and in-demand technologies, we want to instill in young students a love for scientific exploration and innovation. 

The week-long, face-to-face sessions gave high school students hands-on experience with mechanical engineering projects while also giving them a taste of university life,” said Dr. Mamoun Abdel-Hafez, Professor and Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering at CEN.

Organized by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, the bi-annual camp was offered to high school students in grades 10 to 12 to help them learn more about the field of mechanical engineering. Participants were divided into two groups and worked closely with faculty members from the department on 2D sketching and 3D modelling using the computer-aided software Inventor. They also learned basic 3D printing concepts and types, leading them to build their own grills and hammers. Employing a LEGO EV3 robotics kit and their own graphical algorithms, students built and programmed functional robots. They were also introduced to the basic concepts of microfluidics in renewable energy and learned how to build and program a mechatronics system.

“With the UAE Centennial 2071 focusing on education as one of its four main aspects, we wanted to align our work with the vision’s objectives that focus on advanced technology and engineering. The experience students gained from the boot camp introduced them to new fields of study that are highly in demand today, and which they may want to consider when they pursue their university studies. In the end, we aspire to graduate professionals who will actively contribute to building the UAE’s knowledge economy and excel globally,” said Dr. Abdel-Hafez.

The AUS Department of Mechanical Engineering offers a bachelor’s degree program and a master’s degree program in mechanical engineering. The department’s 15 state-of-the art labs in a variety of specializations offer students hands-on experience and practical knowledge. For more information about these programs, please visit www.aus.edu/cen/departments/department-of-mechanical-engineering.