The Reincarnation of the Engineering “Shop” Available to Purchase

The traditional hallmark of mechanical engineering education, the “shop”, is in the midst of a fundamental transformation. From its historic roots in the foundry and machine shop tucked away in the basement, it has evolved into a clean modern showcase of student activity, creativity and learning. The factors that led to its near-extinction in the 1980’s are discussed as well as the reasons for its current resurgence and modernization. An example of a modern reincarnation is presented — Penn State’s Learning Factory, which was awarded the 2006 Gordon Prize for Engineering Education by the National Academy of Engineering.