Integration | Watson Lab

Complete Engineer®

Course integrates experiential learning through multiple industry guest lectures and job site visits connecting students to real-world construction practices.
Students complete a project-based learning experience involving the design and construction of sheds in teams, applying construction methods, materials, and project coordination.
Course emphasizes leadership development, field studies, and hands-on construction execution.
Primary deliverables include completed sheds and funds generated through the auction of the sheds to support nonprofit partners.
Research activities include collection and analysis of student data related to retention, sense of belonging, and student engagement within experiential learning environments.
Students also produce technical reflections and applied learning artifacts demonstrating integration of field and classroom knowledge.

Students gain direct exposure to industry practices and improve readiness for construction careers.
Development of leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills through hands-on project work.
Community impact through donation of constructed sheds to nonprofit partners, benefiting local families.
Strengthened partnerships between university, industry professionals, and community organizations.
Enhanced student engagement and retention through applied, experiential pedagogy.
Research outcomes contribute to improved understanding of student retention, belonging, and effectiveness of experiential learning in construction education.
205 students trained as part of the program