Abstract:

This paper presents a university-industry collaborative model designed to enhance undergraduate engineering education through research-driven and experiential learning. The initiative is centered at a U.S. engineering institution, where students engage in structured undergraduate research projects that are closely aligned with industry-relevant challenges. The model integrates project-based learning, faculty mentorship, and exposure to real-world engineering problems, providing students with opportunities to connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications.

A representative research project focuses on thermal management and heat dissipation in a transmitter for over-the-air charging applications. Within this context, students applied principles of heat transfer, numerical simulation, and experimental validation to analyze system performance and develop design improvements. The project framework allowed students to participate in the full research process, including problem definition, modeling, testing, and results interpretation, while addressing constraints typical of industry-driven applications.

The paper outlines the structure of the undergraduate research program, including faculty and industry engagement, mentoring strategies, and integration within the broader curriculum. Student learning outcomes are evaluated with respect to research competency, problem-solving skills, technical communication, and professional readiness. Challenges related to project scope, interdisciplinary coordination, and alignment with industry expectations are also discussed. The findings suggest that undergraduate research experiences grounded in industry-relevant problems significantly enhance student learning and better prepare graduates for engineering practice.

Keywords:

University-Industry Collaboration, Undergraduate Research, Experiential Learning, Engineering Education.