Skills Up Workshop: Empowering ECE Students with Essential Hands-On Skills

The Skills Up Workshop at NC State ECE equipped newly CODA’d and ECE 200 students with essential hands-on skills in soldering, breadboarding, and lab equipment, providing them with a strong foundation for the upcoming semester.

The Skills Up Workshop provided newly CODA’d and ECE 200 students with essential hands-on training in soldering, breadboarding and lab equipment, giving them a head start for the upcoming semester.

“Our goal was to give students recently CODA’d into ECE an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the laboratory equipment they will be using in their labs and courses,” shared Elena Veeety, Assistant Teaching Professor. “We want students to feel excited and prepared to start their ECE journey.” 

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at NC State hosted its highly anticipated Skills Up Workshop, designed to give newly CODA’d students and those enrolled in ECE 200 a head start on the hands-on skills essential for their academic and professional success.

The Skills Up Workshop was specifically targeted at students who had recently completed their CODA process, as well as those preparing to take ECE 200 in the fall. Recognizing that some students may not have had prior exposure to essential tools and techniques, the workshop provided a structured, supportive environment to develop these skills.

The workshop was divided into three focused sessions: Soldering Part I, Soldering Part II and Introduction to ECE Labs. 

Each session was designed to build on the last, starting with the basics and moving toward more complex tasks. Soldering Part I introduced students to the fundamentals of soldering, including safety precautions and basic techniques. In Soldering Part II, students who had completed the first session could refine their skills, working on more intricate soldering projects.

The third session, Introduction to ECE Labs, was a broader exploration of the tools and equipment commonly used in electrical and computer engineering labs, such as breadboards, multimeters, and oscilloscopes. Students were given the opportunity to practice using these tools, gaining confidence in their ability to navigate the lab environment.

To ensure each student received personalized attention, the workshop sessions were capped at 28 participants. This smaller group size allowed instructors to provide one-on-one guidance, answering questions and offering hands-on assistance as needed. The intimate setting also encouraged collaboration among students, fostering a sense of community as they worked together to overcome challenges.

For many students, the Skills Up Workshop was more than just a learning opportunity; it was a chance to gain confidence ahead of the new semester. By the end of the two days, participants had not only acquired valuable skills but also felt better prepared to tackle the demands of their ECE courses.

Lunch was provided on both days, allowing students to relax, network and discuss what they had learned. This informal time was invaluable, helping to build relationships and further enhance the sense of community within the department.

The success of the Skills Up Workshop has set the stage for future events designed to support the growth and development of ECE students. With positive participant feedback, the department is already considering expanding the workshop and offering similar sessions throughout the academic year. 

“Students had the opportunity to explore ECE-based skills to prepare for the semester,” said Rachael Gruber, Undergraduate Academic Advisor and Lecturer. “Some students haven’t had the opportunity to play around with a solder, multimeter or circuit before. Providing that experience will hopefully give them confidence going into the fall semester.”

As NC State continues to foster innovation and excellence in engineering workshops like Skills Up play a crucial role in ensuring students are well-equipped with the practical skills needed to excel in their studies and beyond.

A big thank you to all the students who attended and made the Skills Up Workshop such a success! We’re excited to see how you’ll apply these skills in your courses and future projects. Stay tuned for more opportunities to enhance your education and go pack!