Integrating Experiential Learning into a First-Year Manufacturing Course to Support Diverse and Non-Traditional Students

The Engineering Technology program at Austin Peay State University serves a diverse student population, including those affiliated with the military and non-traditional learners, whose success often depends on flexible, practice-oriented instruction.To enhance student learning, retention, and satisfaction, a 3-axis CNC router was introduced into ENGT 2000 -Manufacturing Processes, a foundational course typically taken in the first year of study.The hands-on lab activities were designed to support connections between theory and practice and to enhance learners' engagement, confidence, and teamwork.The informal feedback from students and initial observations indicated strong student interest, improved motivation, and a desire for more advanced CNC activities.Sustainability is enabled through the use of low-cost consumables and open-source software.This work-in-progress paper describes the implementation methods, early outcomes, and plans for expanding experiential learning opportunities across the curriculum.