Hey! My name is Douglas Hebda, and I am a freshman from Wiess College pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Engineering Design. As I’m still a freshman, I have’t had a ton of opportunity to become heavily involved here at Rice, however I am involved at my residential college and at the end of last semester helped to spearhead the rebuild of our Warpig.

(freshly rebuilt and ready for final paint)

Last semester I took ENGI 120 and my team was tasked with developing an effective umbrella containment system for use here on campus. I enjoyed the challenge of the class, particularly the growth I experienced in my interpersonal skills. We settled on a design for a modular cubby-like system that we laser cut out of fluted polypropolene and fit together. The design allowed for adequate umbrella capacity and water drainage and removal. The class cemented my desire to pursue the EDES minor, helping me to have a greater understanding of what engineering design really is.

At some point in the future I hope to learn and use advanced machining/metal working skills. I’ve always had a desire to restomod a late 60’s Mustang, and the ability to fabricate and alter the frame to allow for new engine mounts and suspension components is very intriguing to me.

Now, in ENGI 210 I hope to gain further skills in post-processing and finishing methods, as well as exploring additive manufacturing, a field I have not had a chance to explore yet. I know that there are a number of projects in the class that allow for experience in these areas and I’m excited to grow in my understanding of fabrication methods.