Project Showcase

For this project, we fabricated a grill using 304 stainless steel for the cooking surface and mild steel for the rest of the structure. We used TIG welding to attach the grill handle and MIG welding for the remaining components. This project allowed us to apply welding techniques, problem-solve material compatibility challenges, and gain hands-on fabrication experience.

• Food safety considerations—304 stainless steel is required for cooking surfaces to prevent contamination and illness.
• Material compatibility challenges—welding stainless steel to mild steel was difficult, especially when attaching the handle to the grill.
• Practical applications of welding—this skill is valuable for fabrication, personal projects, and potential career opportunities in metalwork.

This project connects to our culture and community because grilling is a shared experience—many of us have enjoyed cookouts with family and friends. Through this project, we gained a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in making everyday items like grills. It also broadened our perspective on the effort laborers put into building essential structures, such as cars, bridges, and buildings.

One thing we would have done differently is managing our time more effectively. Initially, we struggled to decide on a project, which delayed our progress. If we were to do this again, we would approach brainstorming more efficiently to maximize productivity. The tight deadline taught us the importance of planning and time management in hands-on projects.

We are most proud of overcoming the initial challenge of generating an idea and successfully completing the project. We learned that while teamwork is essential, sometimes working independently can improve efficiency. Additionally, we discovered that taking a step back and approaching challenges with patience helps manage frustration and problem-solving more effectively.