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Promoting Innovation in Project-Based Education (PIPE)

PIPEline to Curiosity, Connections, and Creating Value

Five students from the University of Michigan's College of Engineering, wearing KEEN and college logo t-shirts, pose with a small robotic project.

Every December, CECS hosts Promoting Innovation in Project-Based Education (PIPE). 

PIPE empowers students to learn by doing! Through hands-on projects that address societal and industry challenges, students apply engineering and computer science knowledge while building skills in innovation, teamwork, leadership, and professional practice.

By integrating project-based and experiential learning across our undergraduate programs, PIPE prepares students to graduate career-ready and equipped to create meaningful impact in a rapidly evolving world.

PIPE is guided by the following principles:

  • Build, Create, Innovate — From Day One
  • Projects, Innovation, and Impact for Every Student
  • Real-World Experience from First Year to Senior Year
  • Learning by Doing Across All CECS Majors
  • Faculty-Led, Student-Centered

 

Events of the Day

A group of individuals observes a small robot on the floor in a modern indoor space. Some are holding and using smartphones. The setting appears to be a demonstration or competition area with visible pathways marked on the floor.

First Year Students Project Competition

Students develop an autonomous vehicle that can carry an unstable load and track a line on the floor. The vehicle must travel as fast as possible without the load toppling.
 

A person in a beige suit speaks to two individuals at a technology exhibit. A table displays a laptop and some tech devices.

Student Project Showcase

Students showcase projects they have been working on to a panel of judges. 

Person pointing at a poster board in a professional setting.

Faculty PIPE Presentations

Faculty present how they are integrating hands-on learning in the classroom.

Photo Gallery

Person presenting in a professional setting with a poster board next to them.
Person showcasing an engineering gadget at a showcase event.
Three people stand in front of a poster board in a professional setting.
Two people stand in front of banner with logos holding a car in front of them.
A group of people stand in front of a glass wall at a professional event.
A person is holding a small car to a track on the floor as another person is taking a look at the car as well.
A small car on a track.
Two people look a poster board in a modern building.
An engineering gadget and a laptop on a table at a showcase type event.
Four people stand next to a poster board in a professional setting.