Free workshops and mentorship where students build functioning prototypes for their own communities. Designed and run by students, for students.
Scroll ↓Community Engineering Lab (CEL) is a student-led initiative. We think more students should get their hands on real engineering work instead of just reading about it.
Our workshops are free and open to anyone. Students learn to design and build with mentors right beside them, and they put those skills toward problems their own neighborhoods actually have.
We don't stop at the prototype. Students take their work into the field, see how it holds up, and keep improving it until it does the job.
Every program is free and open to all skill levels. Pick one, or a few, and start building.
A beginner CAD course for 6th graders using Autodesk Fusion 360. Students start with simple 2D sketches and work their way up to fully constrained 3D parts, all through projects rather than lectures. By the end, everyone can design a printable object on their own.
Enroll nowAn introduction to Algebra 1 concepts. Learn linear equations, inequalities, systems of equations, functions and graphs, quadratic expressions and equations, radicals, and much more during this course meant for beginners and intermediates alike!
EnrollGain an understanding of engineering theory and specialize in pathways such as Web Development, AI Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and more. Develop the skills and experience needed to think and work like professional engineers. Sign up to receive an additional learning kit for every session!
EnrollAlgorithms, breaking problems down, and learning to think like a programmer. These are the ideas behind every language you'll pick up later.
EnrollEvery session is free, always. No catch.
We're always adding programs. Want CEL to run a workshop at your school or club? Let's talk.
Bring CEL to your schoolBrowse what's coming up. There's no skill level you need to have first.
Work alongside mentors on a real project, not a simulated one.
Take what you built into the community and see it put to work.
SMWith over three years of experience conducting research, Shiven is a 1st Place recipient in Engineering at the Montgomery County Science Fair, a robotics states qualifier with another three years of experience, and has led various other projects and organizations. Shiven founded, and now leads, CEL. He serves as the primary hardware designer for all projects, oversees all CEL operations, and provides mentorship to students.
YPComputer science enthusiast with hands-on proficiency in C, C++, Java, HTML, and CSS, backed by Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) and Oracle AI certifications. Further strengthened by rigorous coursework across several college-level (AP) courses, reflecting a strong academic foundation alongside practical technical skill.
JRA semifinalist in a national-level hackathon, a state qualifier in DECA, a regional debate champion, and a 4x intramural quiz champion, Johan brings tons of experience in software design, engineering technology, and communication to CEL.
TCBringing his experience within science fairs and research, senior Tola Clements from Spring-Ford Area High School has taken many college-level science and math courses, received 1st Place in CS at the Montgomery County Science Fair, and has been a Robotics Club member for two years.
Every session is free. Tell us who's joining and which course, and we'll be in touch.
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