Engineering Brighter Futures for Autism

February 21, 2026 @ 2:00PM — 2:45PM Central Time (US & Canada) Add to Calendar

Tyler Junior College: 1327 S Baxter Ave 257 County Road 3110 Tyler, TX 75701 Get Directions

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Engineering Brighter Futures for Autism A Preview of an Upcoming Full-Day Program Coming to East Texas Session Description This breakout session offers an exciting preview of Engineering Brighter Futures for Autism, an innovative, hands-on program designed to build teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills for individuals on the autism spectrum through engineering-based challenges. Originally launched in St. Louis and later expanded to Dallas, this highly successful program is now being planned for East Texas, and we are thrilled to offer symposium attendees an early look at what’s to come. This session serves as a teaser for a future full-day event, with opportunities to sign up at a later date. Led by engineering professors Dr. Mike Seger, Dr. Tim Priest, and Dr. Arif Malik, this interactive session will showcase how engineering can be a powerful tool for skill development. Short videos from past projects will play as attendees arrive and throughout the presentation, highlighting real-world examples of the program in action. Participants will observe a live demonstration of 3D scanning, CAD/CAM modeling (SolidWorks), and 3D printing as a missing component is designed, produced, and installed on a remote-control vehicle. The completed part will be revealed near the end of the session, followed by a brief show-and-tell and Q&A. Collaboration is at the heart of the program, with 75% of scoring focused on teamwork and communication and 25% on technical execution. This session demonstrates how engineering experiences can foster cooperation, confidence, and meaningful skill development for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Presenter: Dr. Mike Seger, Dr. Tim Priest, and Dr. Arif Malik

Time: 2:15-3PM

Who Should Attend: This breakout session is designed for educators, engineers, students, therapists, program leaders, and families interested in innovative, technology-driven approaches that support learning, independence, and career pathways for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Breakout Session Participation Requirements
To ensure a safe, supportive, and successful experience for all participants, the following minimum abilities and requirements apply to youth and adults attending breakout sessions designed for individuals on the autism spectrum:
Participants must:
  • Be able to communicate their needs (verbally, with AAC, or other reliable communication methods)
  • Be fully potty trained
  • Be able to participate in an activity for up to 45 minutes
  • Be able to follow basic directions
  • Be paired with a designated buddy and must never be left alone during the session
  • 14 years old and up
Drop-Off & Pick-Up Policy:
  • Parents or caregivers must drop off and pick up participants directly at the assigned classroom for each breakout session
  • Participants may only be released to their parent or designated caregiver at the end of the session
Required Registration Information:
To help us provide appropriate support and ensure safety, you will be asked to provide the following information during registration: (jess please simply make question with a field for them to type in)
  • Autism spectrum level (if known)
  • Participant’s fields of interest
  • Emergency contact information
  • Whether the participant is an elopement risk (yes or no)
Providing accurate and complete information allows us to plan staffing, assign buddies appropriately, and create the best possible experience for your loved one.
Thank you for partnering with us to make these breakout sessions safe, engaging, and meaningful for everyone.
Attendees