The Diane Bryant Engineering Student Design Center, or ESDC, is committed to engaging the next generation of engineers, designers and makers through hands-on, experiential learning opportunities. Our youth programs introduce students to real-world engineering tools, fabrication methods and the design process in a collaborative and safe environment.
Engineering Summer Program for Middle & High School Students
Hosted by Gowell at UC Davis, this summer program offers students an in-depth introduction to the engineering design process, fabrication methods and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence in manufacturing. All instruction is led by the ESDC team and combines short lectures with guided, hands-on fabrication experiences.
Students will develop practical skills while working with advanced equipment and tools in a professional engineering environment.
High School Students
Participants will explore fabrication techniques using industry-standard equipment, including CNC mills, lathes, welding machinery and additional advanced manufacturing tools. This track emphasizes precision manufacturing, shop safety and real-world engineering workflows.
Middle School Students
Younger participants will focus on foundational design and rapid prototyping skills, with an emphasis on creativity and iteration. Activities include hands-on experience with 3D printing, laser cutting and introductory digital fabrication tools.
Program Dates
- June 22 – July 2
- July 13 – July 24
- July 27 – August 7
- August 10 – August 14
Take Our Children to Work Day
The ESDC welcomed students and families to explore engineering in action during Take Our Children to Work Day on April 23, 2026. Visitors had a behind-the-scenes look at the Electronics & Rapid Prototyping Room.
This event featured demonstrations and informal tours designed to spark curiosity about engineering careers. Highlights included live demonstrations of 3D printing, laser cutting and other digital fabrication technologies that bring ideas from concept to reality.
Picnic Day Open House
As part of UC Davis’s annual Picnic Day celebration on April 18, 2026, the ESDC opened its doors to the public for an interactive showcase of student innovation and fabrication technology.
The open house invited visitors to explore hands-on demonstrations and see engineering tools in action.
Guests experienced the excitement of modern manufacturing firsthand — watching machines build components, exploring digital fabrication processes and learning how engineers transform ideas into functional prototypes.