Featured Projects
Through Duke University’s First-Year Design (FYD) program, students gain early experience as they work in multi-disciplinary teams to design and build prototype solutions to solve real-world, client-based problems.
A solution for sewer lines
Each day, millions of Americans pour fats, oils, and grease down their sinks. This happens because people are unaware, forgetful, or don’t worry about their actions.
Team dispenses liquid for zero-waste store
For team members Rodrigo Guerreiro, James Koconis, and Kaitlyn Roegner figuring out how to dispense liquids for a zero-waste store was just a fraction of what they learned during their first spring semester.
Residential Bridge in West Virginia
A cost-effective, residential bridge that can withstand major weather events
Recent News
May 19, 2023
Inaugural First-Year Design Student Awards Luncheon
The student leaders of the First-Year Design (FYD) program are essential to the EGR 101 student experience. Teaching Assistants (TAs); Writing Consultants (WCs); and LabRATS (technical lab support) are selected from a competitive interview process.
May 8, 2023
Engineering design in action – building a home for NC Bluebirds
Early in the fall semester students in EGR 101 have an opportunity to impact a unique group of North Carolina residents - local bluebirds. The assignment to build a wooden birdhouse is not hypothetical.
April 26, 2023
First-Year Design Director Wins Pratt Teaching Performance Award
Dr. Ann Saterbak, Director of the First-Year Design Program, has won the Pratt School of Engineering Faculty Performance Award in Duke BME. These new awards were created to recognize, encourage and reward exceptional distinction, innovation, and productivity in teaching.
Inspiring Engineers
Duke Engineering offers students a progressive immersion in engineering design, from the first-year overview to capstone design projects in their chosen disciplines.
Be part of the excitement
You have the opportunity to support bright students and to benefit from their ideas!
Project Idea
When you see a need or problem, submit the idea as a project.
Provide Support
Share you knowledge as an expert in the engineering field as a team mentor
Pay It Forward
Support components of the First Year Design program to ensure student success