At Texas A&M, our electrical and computer engineering capstone courses—ECEN 403 and 404—allow students to tackle real-world challenges through an industry-sponsored design experience. Working in teams, Aggie engineers apply the full design process from concept to evaluation, delivering innovative solutions to projects proposed by leading industry partners. This hands-on program reflects the standards and practices of professional engineering, preparing students to lead with confidence and make an immediate impact after graduation.
Benefits for Industry Partners
Through ECEN 403 and 404, companies gain more than just an innovative design solution; they gain a true partnership with the next generation of Aggie engineers. Students immerse themselves in a sponsor’s products and technologies, sharing their work with peers and showcasing the company’s presence across the College of Engineering. Each project spans a full semester, allowing sponsors to observe, mentor, and engage with highly motivated students who bring fresh perspectives to real-world challenges.
At the end of each term, projects are showcased and judged by industry leaders, highlighting the creativity, technical expertise, and professionalism of our student teams.
To support this collaboration, ECEN 403 and 404 utilize the WebCT course management internet portal that allows for ongoing communication and project management. Student teams use the platform to exchange reports, pose questions, and track progress, while industry sponsors can provide timely feedback and actively guide development from start to finish.
Sponsors
BT Cox
ChampionX
Dell
Los Alamos National Laboratory
Monico
Powell Industries
Priority Power
Raytheon
Sandia National Laboratories
Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program (SATOP)
TaiPro Engineering
Texas Instruments
Sponsorship Details
The Capstone Design course is a real-world engineering project from the sponsor company. The sponsor assigns a company liaison (mentor) for the students, ideally, an engineer willing to work with students and provide equipment training if necessary. The sponsor also provides an equipment loan if the project requires special equipment. WebCT Course Management enables online access to sponsored projects. A standard donation of $15,000 is required for two-semester projects (one team usually comprises of 4-5 students; this gets reduced if more teams get sponsored). Funds support department scholarships, travel expenses and other student activities.
By sponsoring a capstone project, you automatically become a Silver Member.
Program Supervisor
For more information or if you have any questions, please contact Professor Stavros Kalafatis at skalafatis-tamu@tamu.edu.