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Electronics & Robotics

Three-Week Summer Engineering Program

This program employs principles of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. Students are provided with key foundational knowledge of electronics and coding. They then apply what they learn to a series of creative challenges. Students design and assemble robotic vehicles and machines. Students will write computer code to operate their creations. These creations must pass challenges such as reacting to sound, retrieving objects, or completing a similar assigned task. Norman Wittels, who designed the program holds a BS, SM, EE, and PhD from MIT.

Experts not only provide instruction but also pointers and feedback to the students on projects. Students exercise creativity and independence and are able to learn from their successes and mistakes. Students are given autonomy, within basic parameters, to individually tackle problems through tinkering and hands-on projects. They also have the opportunity to work as a group, bonding and exchanging insights with team members.

Past students have utilized a beautiful robotics lab and the Boston Leadership Institute’s own extensive inventory of high-quality, advanced equipment. These hands-on experiences provide practical skills and real-world knowledge that prepare students for cutting-edge careers in technology and engineering.

Past field trips have taken full advantage of our Greater Boston location, featuring visits to engineering labs at MIT and WPI.

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Summer 2025:

June 22nd – July 10th, 2026

Gann/Bentley | Waltham, MA

More About: Awards – Research Programs – Sample Week 

Hands-on Activities

  • Design and assemble robotic vehicles and machines

  • Write computer code to operate creations that must pass challenges, react to sound, retrieve objects, or complete a similar assigned task

  • Use Arduino programming to power robots, as well as program a variety of sensors that respond to commands, including LED lights

  • Practice soldering techniques to assemble vehicles

Field Trips

Examples of past field trips include:

MIT Edgerton Center: Get the chance to visit the world-famous MIT campus where students have participated in short engineering or design challenges using tools like Arduino boards, sensors, or 3D printers and get to see demonstrations of student projects such as robotics systems, underwater vehicles, or experimental imaging equipment.

WPI Robotics Lab: Explore the Robotics lab at Worcester Polytechnical Institute with a walk-through of the lab space, highlights of student work, learn from expert tour guides, and engage in hands-on activities with some of their robotics systems.

Past Instructor: Dr. Norman Wittels

Dr. Wittels received his PhD, Masters of Science, & Bachelors of Science degrees from MIT. He has served as the Director of STEM Initiatives at Dexter Southfield High School, one of the most prestigious private high schools in Massachusetts.

Dr. Norman Wittels
Students pose for a group photo in the Engineering: Electronics and Robotics three-week summer engineering program

Student Comments

It was really interesting and I liked the amount of projects we got to do. The TAs were always nice and helped if we were stuck. I also liked 3D printing and the field trips because they helped me imagine what real life would be like in the robotics field.’

This class was a life-changing experience. Despite initial doubts of difficulty given my strong theoretical background, the class ramped up to adequate difficulty. The large degree of freedom for students allowed me to work hard and make friends and teammates. The instruction was fire and the TAs were superbly helpful!’

The program was very well organized with a lot of hands-on activities and fair challenges. Students were encouraged to stay engaged as a group. The teachers gave constant help and made sure we understood everything.’

It was very interesting. I wasn’t expecting to be so focused in class and have so much fun coding. It was a very different type of class than any other I’ve taken.’

Note: This page represents our best expectations for the program. Activities and instructors are subject to change. In such cases, similar activities and a comparably qualified instructor will be sought.

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