Earn Up to 9 College Credits While Developing Future-Ready Skills as you Explore Design, Imaging, and Digital Manufacturing
Vermont Business Magazine Applications are now open for Vermont State University’s (VTSU) 2026 3D Technology Summer Institute, a fully residential program designed for rising high school juniors and seniors. Students will experience college life, earn college credits, and gain hands-on skills in 3D technology—all while working with advanced equipment and industry-standard software.
The program runs June 28 through August 8 on VTSU’s Randolph campus and is organized into three intensive two-week sessions. Students who complete all three introductory courses will earn nine college credits and the Vermont State University Certificate in 3D Technology. The Institute draws on expertise from Randolph’s Advanced Manufacturing Center, the Castleton Innovation Lab, and faculty across multiple disciplines to deliver an innovative, interdisciplinary learning experience.
Students can choose from three two-week introductory courses, with optional one-week add-ons that deepen skills in paired areas:
- 3D Printing (3 credits): Learn the principles, practice, and applications of 3D printing. Prepare models using software, print multiple parts using different technologies, and understand safety, maintenance, and operation procedures for the equipment.
- 3D Imaging (3 credits): Explore photogrammetry, LIDAR, and structured-light techniques. Use advanced 3D scanners to create highly accurate models of real-world objects.
- Optional One-Week Add-On: CT Scanning (1 credit): Gain hands-on experience with scanning technology and learn its applications across various fields.
- 3D Modeling (3 credits): Start by creating narrative scenes with industry-standard software, adding realistic textures and lighting. In the second week, dive into parametric modeling using Fusion software.
- Optional One-Week Add-On: 2D to 3D: Intro to 3D Animation (1 credit): Transition from 2D exercises to 3D animation in Autodesk Maya, culminating in working with rigged objects and characters.
Each session is limited to 18 students, ensuring small cohorts and personalized instruction. Participants will work with advanced 3D printers, scanners, and industry-standard software throughout the program.
“Today’s employers increasingly demand practical and creative applications of 3D technology,” said Matt Moriarty, Assistant Professor of Archaeology at VTSU and a leader of the 3D Institute. “Through this program, students gain hands-on experience with the modeling, imaging, and printing tools transforming industries worldwide. For Vermont high school students, the chance to earn free college credit while building these in-demand skills makes this an exceptional opportunity.”
Coltrane, a past participant and current high school sophomore, shared, “Learning the 3D technology like 3D printing has helped me excel in my robotics competitions, being able to 3D print parts for robots has allowed me to create any part I need, for a cheap price, and I can adjust it to whatever I want.”
He added, “The course really focuses on the college experience, and really shows you that college isn’t all work, work, work, all the time. The classes were also taught very well and allowed me to have a much better understanding of the content. Within the 6 weeks I was there, I got a great understanding of each topic. It was refreshing meeting new people that were all interested in the same thing. I wish I could go back and do it all over again.”
Another former participant and current high school student, Nina, reflected on her experience, “The Vermont 3D institute provided me with one of the best hands-on learning experiences I’ve ever had. I met some of the most amazing people, who to this day are still some of my close friends. This was truly a life changing experience and I am thankful I got to spend six weeks with incredible people while learning the ins and outs of 3D technology.”
The Institute is open to rising high school juniors and seniors with strong academic records and an interest in 3D technology. Thanks to support from the Vermont Legislature, eligible Vermont residents attend free of charge. Applications are encouraged early as spots fill quickly.
Apply now at:
ABOUT VERMONT STATE UNIVERSITY
Vermont State University provides a high-quality, flexible, and affordable education for students seeking associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, certificates, and in-demand professional credentials. The university builds upon a history of public higher education in Vermont dating back to 1787. More information about Vermont State University can be found at: VermontState.edu
Vermont State University is built upon the best of Castleton University, Northern Vermont University, and Vermont Technical College. Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, July 1, 2023.
At Vermont State University, we foster a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice and strive to be a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive learning and working environment.
Randolph Center, Vt. – VermontState.edu
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