Harmon School’s CAD & 3D Printing Studio is a remote, hands-on engineering program designed for students interested in design, problem-solving, and making ideas real. This course introduces students to computer-aided design (CAD) and additive manufacturing through real-world projects that blend creativity, engineering thinking, and technical skill.

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Students learn to design parts and systems using Onshape, a professional-grade, cloud-based CAD platform used in engineering and product design. Designs are then brought to life through 3D printing, allowing students to move from concept to prototype in a meaningful, tangible way.

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Note: Students must have access to their own 3D printer to participate.

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Design Thinking Meets Engineering

The program emphasizes the full design process—planning, modeling, testing, revising, and iterating. Students learn how engineers think by working through increasingly complex design challenges that require precision, creativity, and persistence.

Core areas of focus include:

• Fundamentals of CAD modeling in Onshape

• Dimensioning, constraints, and assemblies

• Design for function and manufacturability

• Iterative problem-solving and revision

• Translating digital designs into physical objects

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Projects are scaffolded to support beginners while allowing more advanced students to explore complex designs and independent challenges.

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Live Instruction, Real-World Making

Classes meet live online, where instructors demonstrate techniques, model workflows, and guide students through design challenges. Outside of class, students work independently to refine designs and print prototypes on their own 3D printers.

This structure mirrors authentic engineering practice—students learn concepts together, then apply them independently through hands-on production.

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From Screen to Physical Object

Unlike purely digital courses, this program emphasizes real-world output. Students see how design decisions affect physical results, learning firsthand about tolerances, material behavior, and print limitations. Failed prints are treated as learning opportunities, reinforcing resilience and analytical thinking.

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Who This Program Is For

The CAD & 3D Printing Studio is a strong fit for students who:

• Enjoy building, tinkering, or engineering challenges

• Are curious about design, technology, or manufacturing

• Learn best through hands-on, project-based work

• Want practical experience with industry-relevant tools

• Are comfortable working independently between live sessions

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No prior CAD or engineering experience is required.

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Materials & Requirements

• Access to a personal 3D printer

• Ability to install and use Onshape (web-based)

• Common filament materials as recommended per project

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Detailed setup guidance and material suggestions are provided before the program begins.