When the pieces of Joseph McCoy's 3D-printed katana sword refused to fit together, he encountered a critical moment in his engineering education. He had meticulously designed and printed the sword components in his engineering class using a state-of-the-art 3D printer. However, upon returning home to assemble his creation, Joseph discovered an unexpected challenge: the pieces didn't align as planned. The culprit? Shrinking filament – a real-world issue that no textbook had prepared him for. Through his experiences in the Academies of Louisville, Joseph has discovered that the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application can be significant – and bridging that gap is where true learning occurs. Now, as he completes his senior year at Jeffersontown High School, Joseph not only plans to attend the University of Louisville's Speed School of Engineering but also has more hands-on engineering experience than many college graduates.

Building Foundations

When Joseph McCoy entered his freshman year at Jeffersontown High School, a future career in engineering wasn't on his radar. He enjoyed choir, spent time with friends, and had a penchant for problem-solving and puzzles. His most significant "engineering" achievement at that point had been collaborating with his grandfather to build a dog house at their Indiana home during middle school. Little did he know, this modest construction experience was laying the foundation for his future pursuits.

As Joseph approached the end of his freshman year, the decision to join the Build & Design Academy came naturally. He discovered his home in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) pathway, initially taking welding as an additional elective. CAD technology empowers engineers and designers to create precise 2D and 3D models of physical objects on a computer. It's a cornerstone tool in modern engineering, architecture, and manufacturing, allowing professionals to visualize, modify, and optimize designs before bringing them into the real world.

The Boat Regatta

In the Build & Design Academy, Joseph encountered numerous hands-on learning opportunities and real-world projects. A standout example is the annual Boat Regatta, where students design and construct cardboard boats using duct tape and CAD software. Joseph's sophomore year marked a significant milestone when his team's "Barbie boat" claimed victory in the 2023 competition. The project challenges students to adhere to specific design constraints, such as a maximum height of 14 inches and a 30 square foot bottom. After designing their boats digitally, students bring their creations to life using the cardboard and duct tape and then compete in a bracketed tournament. This experience not only tests students' design skills but also their ability to translate digital models into functional objects – a crucial skill in engineering. For Joseph, the Boat Regatta exemplified how classroom learning translates into practical problem-solving and innovation.

“Joseph McCoy’s journey through the Academies of Louisville exemplifies the power of learning by doing. His experiences have taught him that real-world engineering often involves adapting to unexpected challenges, a skill he now relishes.”

Redesigning Reality: The Gaslight Festival Map

One of Joseph's most impactful projects was redesigning the outdated vendor map for the Jeffersontown Gaslight Festival. This task required more than just CAD skills; it demanded on-the-ground research and problem-solving. Joseph and his classmate Lauren Duffy led a team of fellow students in a project that used Google Earth satellite images, traced layouts by hand, and even visited downtown Jeffersontown to ensure accuracy. They had to consider practical elements like fire hydrants and sidewalks – details that might be overlooked in a purely theoretical exercise. The Jeffersontown Chamber of Commerce continues to use this updated map to plan and execute the event.

Bridging Classroom and Industry

Under the guidance of CAD teacher Jason Stepp, Joseph has mastered industry-standard software like AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor, gaining proficiency that extends beyond the classroom. Field trips to companies such as CMC Rebar and UW Solutions have reinforced the real-world applicability of his skills. At UW Solutions, Joseph was amazed to discover they used the same CAD software he had learned in school, validating the relevance of his education.

Joseph's senior project, born from his own initiative, exemplifies the seamless integration of his academic knowledge and practical skills. Recognizing the need for functional seating in the newly redesigned CAD classroom, Joseph proposed designing and building a custom couch. This project challenges him to apply principles of durability, functionality, and aesthetics while adhering to budget constraints. As he works on this addition to the revamped CAD room, Joseph must consider material properties, structural design, and collaborative teamwork – all essential aspects of professional engineering practice.

Engineering Tomorrow, Today

Joseph McCoy's journey through the Academies of Louisville exemplifies the power of learning by doing. His experiences have taught him that real-world engineering often involves adapting to unexpected challenges, a skill he now relishes. "I enjoy figuring things out," Joseph says, reflecting on how hands-on projects have honed his problem-solving abilities. As he prepares to attend the University of Louisville's Speed School of Engineering, Joseph feels well-equipped for the road ahead. Academy Coach Ashley Conway notes the remarkable growth in Joseph and his peers, praising their ability to collaborate effectively and adapt to criticism. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, Joseph isn't just preparing for a career in engineering – he's already laying the foundation for a bright future in the field.