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Prototype Design

Overview

The Prototype Design Degree Program is a multidisciplinary associates degree program that builds productivity, collaboration, and innovative technology skills that span across industries. At the intersection of business, manufacturing, and technology, students proceed through a pathway of eleven courses (such as Robotics, SolidWorks, Internet of Things, and Rapid Prototyping [with 3D Printers]) with emphasis on gaining computer literacy, work readiness, and diverse prototyping skills. Students receive hands-on, project-based learning with state-of-the-art fabrication technology and often work side-by-side with industry and MCC’s Corporate Partners to receive and complete course assignments. A distinction of this program is the opportunity students can use for a fast-path and accelerate through the degree.

Job & Salary Outlook

Degrees & Certificates Offered

Faculty

Michael Guericke, Instructor

Schedule

Find quarter class schedules

Additional Info

What is the Program's Mission?

The mission of the Prototype Design Degree Program is to prepare students for employment in various technology, manufacturing, engineering, and prototype-related areas by providing experience with and exposure to advanced technology such as 3D printers, 3D scanners, CNC laser cutters, and computerized milling machines.

Students develop the career skills necessary to pursue employment prototyping, manufacturing, engineering-related fields using advanced and emerging technology or to transfer to a 4-year institution to further their academic goals.

This mission supports the college mission to deliver relevant, student-centered education to a diverse community of learners by providing competency-based learning experiences that connect students with real-world projects and access to hiring employers from day one of the program.

What is a Prototype?

A prototype is an early sample, model, or release of a product built to test a concept or process. It is a term used in a variety of contexts, including semantics, design, electronics, and software programming. A prototype is generally used to evaluate a new design to enhance precision by the users.

What is the Role of the Prototype in Design Thinking?

  • To devise and solve problems,the student has to do or create something.
  • To communicate ideas in an understandable way.
  • To start a conversation with end users around a specific idea to help get specific feedback.
  • To test possibilities without compromising on a single solution.
  • Fail quickly and inexpensively and learn from mistakes before investing too much time, reputation or money.
  • Manage the process of creating solutions by breaking down complex problems into smaller elements that can be tested and evaluated.

Are You a Good Fit?

  • Are creative and process-oriented
  • Like working with your hands, machinery, and technology
  • Are energized by analyzing and solving problems
  • Are interested in learning emerging technologies and applications
  • Have an interest in communicating, contributing, and collaborating in business and production environments

What is the Prototype Design Lab?

The Prototype Design Lab is a place to play, to create, to mentor and to invent: a place for learning and innovation. The Lab is equipped with diverse tools, equipment, machines, programs, and materials to solve a broad range of business problems (via prototyping). Students access the Lab environment to allow them to make (almost) anything.