2023 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Extended, project-based activities are critical for preparing undergraduate students for roles in modern industry yet are often difficult to provide through traditional curricula. This article describes the objectives and functions of a student-centric research endeavor within the -Institution Name- -Program Name- framework that provides guided instruction and extracurricular experiences on product lifecycle management (PLM). The course objective is to develop a digital twin for a scaled, tracked, robotic vehicle while introducing participants to PLM topics and tools. Due to its breadth, this project incorporates activities such as collaborative design and project management, while providing hands on experiences with computer aided (CAx) tools, organizational documentation, and additive manufacturing. Relatedly, students are empowered to explore PLM topics of individual interest, gaining insight into the digitalization of STEM fields. Observed challenges include participant turnover and maintaining the relevancy of the project through strategic updates. The course showcases the value of extracurricular projects in preparing undergraduate students for successful roles in industry.