One cool project heats up learning thanks to Enertech Global

Published: November 11, 2021

Some say an engineering degree is like a master key; it opens many doors. When four engineering majors at Greenville University graduated last spring, they did so after immersing themselves in a yearlong project that held the promise of opening doors not just for them, but for untold others.

Their challenge? Modify a standard HVAC unit into a demonstration model that shows thermodynamics and heat transfer in action. The units digital sensors, gauges, and see-through panels would open doors of understanding for students enrolled in engineering, physics, and chemistry classes at the University.

But thats not all. If the model proved useful to GU students, it would likely prove useful to students at other colleges and universities too. Not wanting to leave opportunity on the table, the young engineers partnered with their peers in GUs business school to identify needs in the marketplace for a demonstration model like this.

The projects manager, Kate Arthur, kept the group organized, productive, and on schedule. She also conducted cost and market analyses to determine the viability for a small business to produce the demonstration units. She now includes the project in her professional portfolio. This experience taught me more than any class, lecture, or test ever could, she says.

Kates teammates included David Yakim, who managed testing and programming, and designers Joshua McClain and Zuozhen Qiu. McClain also served as technical specialist.

The project was made possible by the generosity of Enertech Global in Greenville, who supplied the unit. Enertech has partnered with GU students often, creating opportunities for rich, hands-on learning experiences. These include research projects through GUs Summer Research Experience and internship opportunities.

The project was also part of the Universitys Experience First program. Experience First brings students together with businesses like Enertech to take on marketplace challenges. This year marks Experience Firsts fifth year of facilitating winning partnerships between students and businesses and nonprofits.