The Engineering Program at Green Mountain Technology & Career Center (GMTCC) emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications. Recently, our students visited General Dynamics and the Vermont National Guard for an inspiring behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge engineering and robotics. Here’s a recap of this incredible experience and what the class is excited to explore next.
General Dynamics: Meeting the Minds Behind the Innovation
At General Dynamics, an aerospace and defense corporation with two facilities in Vermont, our students were privileged to engage with eight engineers from diverse disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, software, and test engineering. These professionals shared their career journeys, emphasizing key themes that resonate deeply with the next generation of engineers here at GMTCC:
- Curiosity: The engineers highlighted the importance of asking “why” and “how” in every aspect of their work, from understanding how a servo functions to integrating software with hardware.
- Problem-Solving: They encouraged our students to approach challenges with an open mind and to collaborate with experts from other fields to uncover innovative solutions.
- Reflective Thinking: Besides solving immediate problems, the engineers stressed investigating latent errors to prevent future issues. For example, fixing a malfunctioning servo is only half the solution—understanding why it failed in the first place is the key to lasting success.
The conversations reinforced that learning 'how to learn' is more critical than repetitive memorization. Engineers adapt their knowledge to tackle new challenges, using hands-on experience and interdisciplinary teamwork to push boundaries.
Ballistics Testing: Engineering Precision in Action
Students were captivated by a demonstration of modern ballistics testing. Traditional methods involved analyzing the trajectories of projectiles using grid patterns on plywood. Today, engineers use advanced sensors to track the sonic boom created by the projectiles traveling at three times the speed of sound. These sensors use trigonometry to calculate trajectories in real-time, providing instant feedback to refine firing mechanisms.
This session underscored the importance of integrating mechanical, electrical, and data analysis systems. Students were inspired by the precision and innovation driving advancements in defense engineering.
Robotics with the Civil Support Team
The Vermont National Guard’s Civil Support Team showcased its cutting-edge robotics capabilities. This group of airmen's mission is to support states and civil authorities in dealing with a range of situations and scenarios that could harm life or property here on US soil. Our GMTCC Engineering students learned about the Unit’s operational systems, including axes of rotation, sensors, servos, and programming of their field robotics. However, our students learned there’s even more to explore:
- How do these robots’ systems operate in real-world scenarios?
- What kind of training and maintenance do they require?
- What problem-solving techniques are essential for daily operations?
Future visits will delve deeper into these questions, offering students a hands-on understanding of robotics and its applications in public safety.
Diverse Paths to Engineering Success
A key takeaway from the visit was the varied educational and professional journeys of the engineers:
- Some held bachelor’s degrees in engineering.
- Others transitioned from associate degrees in aviation or mechanics into engineering roles.
- Practical skills, such as welding, dismantling engines, programming in Python, and working with electrical systems, proved invaluable in collaborative problem-solving.
This diversity of experience highlighted that no one-size-fits-all path to a successful engineering career exists. Every skill contributes to the bigger picture of innovation and teamwork.
What’s Next for GMTCC Engineering?
These visits have set the stage for future explorations:
- Enhanced Ballistics Insights: Students hope to dive deeper into data collection and testing methodologies next time, including a closer look at LiDAR systems (ones that use electromagnetic waves to measure distance and map surface topography).
- Hands-On Robotics: Future sessions will provide a more detailed breakdown of robotic systems, including programming, maintenance, and real-world applications.
- Interdisciplinary Exploration: Students will be better equipped to tackle complex engineering challenges by understanding the interconnectedness of mechanical, electrical, and data systems.
A Bright Future for GMTCC Engineers
As GMTCC continues to expand its engineering offerings, these visits exemplify our commitment to providing students with meaningful, real-world experiences. These opportunities spark curiosity and build the skills needed to succeed in high-demand fields. As noted in a news article on our program, the expansion of engineering pathways at GMTCC ensures that our students are prepared to excel in dynamic and innovative industries.
We’re incredibly grateful to General Dynamics and the Vermont National Guard for hosting us and inspiring the next generation of problem solvers and innovators. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to explore the limitless possibilities of engineering here in Vermont and beyond.