Helping seniors become professional engineers through experience
Bill Samore, Brian Elies, Mike Arthur
(Combination lock opener)
Bill Samore, Brian Elies, and Mike Arthur earned the Instructor's Award in the Fall 2007 semester for their work on the Combination lock opener. "ECE 445 has really allowed me to use all of the information and skills that I have learned since I've been here. At first I didn't really feel confident that I could do a project like this, but this class really showed me that I could apply what I've learned at the U of I to create something really cool. This class was really fun, and after taking it I feel like an engineer now, instead of just an engineering student." --Mike Arthur
This course helps electrical engineering seniors make the transition into industry through self-chosen team projects. To do so, the course emulates the day-to-day life of a real engineering design environment creating what numerous students have called their favorite class. Students put together what they have learned, develop teamwork and leadership skills, and gain in-depth practical knowledge in a topic that excites them. Moreover, Senior Design Projects make a good addition to a resume. Many employers consider a good Senior Design Project to be just as valuable as internship experience.
Ingenuity Article: Both teams had high praise for the ECE 445 experience. "I felt that the class was a type of final exam for my education," said Willenborg. "It proves that I can do engineering. It's a hands-on test to see what you've learned here." Sengupta had a similar view: "The greatest thing about 445 is that it's all you. At the same time, the worst thing about 445 is that it's all you. This class relies on your ability to have self-discipline, motivation, and endurance."
Non-ECE 445 Students
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