Summer Engineering Academy

Fowler School of Engineering

»Summer Engineering Workshops at Chapman University

Fowler School of Engineering proudly offers engineering workshops for high school students over the summer. Students currently in grades 8-12 for the 26/27 academic year qualify. More information for Summer Engineering Academy will be available soon. Please add your information to our Interest List and we will contact you when registration is open.

Registration will open in February 2026.


Some of our past workshops include:
    • Design and Fabrication
    • Arduino Smart Car
    • Game Development
    • Machine Learning

Workshops will run from June 15th, 2026, to July 16th, 2026.

Each workshop will run from 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

 

2025 Summer Workshops

Python Programming

student with laptopIn the hands-on Python Programming workshop, students will build a robust foundation in programming through engaging, project-based lessons using Python. Starting with the basics, participants will learn about syntax, basic commands, and essential data types such as integers, strings, and Booleans, along with how to use variables and operators effectively. The course will guide them through control flow concepts including conditional statements, loops, and functions, enabling them to structure their code logically and efficiently. Students will also gain practical experience with key data structures like lists, dictionaries, and sets. Each concept will be reinforced through exciting projects where students apply their skills to write programs and scripts that solve real-world problems and develop small applications.

Arduino Smart Car

arduino smart carGet ready to build, code, and compete! In this hands-on workshop, you'll dive into electronics with breadboarding and soldering, bringing your circuits to life on a printed circuit board. Program an Arduino microcontroller to control motors, a servo, and a distance sensor—then put your custom-built car to the test in an exciting obstacle course challenge! Are you up for it? Let’s build something amazing!

Intro to Machine Learning: Mining Data for Fun and Profit

student and instructorEmbark on a thrilling journey into AI with the Fowler School of Engineering’s summer workshop, 'Intro to Machine Learning: Mining Data for Fun and Profit.' This course offers a unique blend of AI history and the latest advancements, highlighting how technologies like machine learning are revolutionizing our world. Explore the power of Python and tools like OpenCV as you delve into computer vision algorithms. You'll also learn about the role of hardware acceleration and GPUs, which provide a cornerstone of training deep learning models that are able to achieve-human level expertise on many tasks. Understand how these technologies enable us to solve complex problems rapidly and efficiently, making previously unthinkable AI achievements possible. Whether you're aspiring for a tech career or simply fascinated by AI, this workshop is your portal to understanding and applying groundbreaking skills in a dynamic, engaging setting. Join us to transform your curiosity into cutting-edge knowledge!

Design and Fabrication

cnc machineLearn to program and operate cutting edge rapid prototyping technology including laser cutters, CNC routers and a variety of 3D printers. Students will get an introduction to subtractive and additive manufacturing processes and their associated software packages. Attendees will be exposed to hardware and software that are commonly used in the industry for designing and manufacturing products: Fusion 360, Prusa Slicer and Adobe Illustrator. Students will get to take home a prototype of their own design.

Game Development

girl working on laptopLearn the fundamentals of video game development and design using Unity and industry-standard tools—no coding experience required.

You'll explore game mechanics, storytelling, and level design while building your own playable projects. Just bring your creativity!

Want to Learn More about Summer Engineering Academy?

REGISTRATION


Registration Will Open in Spring 2026!
 
 

DATES


Summer 2026
 

LOCATION


Chapman University
Keck Center for Science and Engineering
Swenson Family Hall of Engineering
 
450 N. Center St.
Orange, CA 92866
 

Have a question?


Contact us at:

engineering@chapman.edu

(714) 516-5616

And remember to keep connected with Fowler Engineering: