Experiential Learning at SEC

Fairfield students standing in a group for a photo in the Igor Sikorsky Development Center lobby.

Fairfield Engineering students participated in an industry day at Sikorski Aircraft headquartered in Stratford, Connecticut.

Research

Students are given opportunities to conduct innovative, in-depth research with faculty mentors. This hallmark of a solid educational experience offers students a chance to put their academic skills to the test, explore their passions, and make a difference. Learn more about research.

Immersion Programs

Experience immersive opportunities through industry days, senior design projects, competitions, study abroad programs, and conferences to gain exposure to diverse engineering practices, industries, and global perspectives.

Transforming the Future

Imagine you’re a prospective student stepping into Fairfield’s Bannow Science Center for the first time, excitement and curiosity buzzing in the air. Your guide for the afternoon is Jackal — not your typical tour leader, but a small, unassuming figure who seems to know everything about the building. Jackal navigates with ease, offering insights at every turn.

Read the Full Article

Dr. Paheding and student training Jackal, the Unmanned Ground Vehicle.

Internships

Gain hands-on experience by applying engineering principles in real-world internships, developing technical skills, gaining industry insights, and building professional networks across diverse sectors. Learn more about one such example, where a mechanical engineering student gained real-world experience at a local company.

Community-Engaged Learning Projects

Collaborate with organizations in local community applying academic knowledge while making a difference. One example includes the School’s partnership with Wakeman Boys and Girls Club for the SuSTEMability project.

Collegiate Competition

Compete in competitions building and racing a Baja vehicle, solving problem sets, or in a debate. Examples include the annual Baja SAE competition, Lockheed Martin Ethics Competition, and Fairfield’s annual StagHack.