Continuing and Professional Education

Each year, Engineers Week brings together engineers, students and communities nationwide to recognize how the profession shapes the world around us. Founded in 1951 by the National Society of Professional Engineers, Engineers Week (February 22–28, 2026) celebrates innovation while inspiring the next generation of problem-solvers.

At Virginia Commonwealth University, that spirit of innovation is alive and well inside our Makerspace training courses, where ideas move from concept to creation through hands-on learning.

At Makerspace, innovation starts with experience. From hand tools and laser cutters to 3D printers, mills and lathes, participants design, fabricate and test ideas using industry-relevant tools and technology. Guided by faculty experts in the College of Engineering, Makerspace courses bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application.

“They are actually able to connect the dots between what they learn in theory to experimentation, and from there, they're able to get a wholesome, well-rounded experience,” says instructor Charles Cartin, Ph.D. 

Through structured training modules, participants learn safety practices, equipment operation and technical processes that mirror professional environments. Experiential learning is essential to engineering education because it prepares participants for collaboration beyond the classroom.

“It gives the students a real-world view and a hands-on approach to what engineers will probably experience out in the real world,” Cartin explains. “It gives them a feel of how they're going to have to think outside the box, apply what they've learned in the classroom,  and how they can actually communicate with other engineers.”

That broader understanding helps participants see how engineering moves from design to production and ultimately to the consumer. It also builds confidence, especially for those using professional tools or software for the first time.

While rooted in engineering, the Makerspace extends far beyond traditional student audiences. Anyone with an interest in the coursework – from any walk of life and at any experience level – is welcome to enroll. Whether someone is just beginning to explore hands-on tools, advancing an existing technical career, pivoting professionally or simply eager to learn something new, the Makerspace offerings provide an accessible and supportive environment.

“The door is open to anyone,” Cartin says. “As long as someone's willing to learn and wanting to learn something new, I'm always happy to see that.”

Makerspace is open to students during the fall and spring semesters and to others in the VCU community during the summer. Participants who complete multiple modules earn digital badges recognizing their technical competencies; credentials that can strengthen applications for internships, research positions and industry roles.

This Engineers Week, explore VCU’s upcoming Makerspace courses and discover how hands-on learning can turn ideas into innovation.