Welcome to CAD-to-Carry

STEM fields are full of exciting opportunities, but for many young people, STEM education can feel disconnected from the real world. Manufacturing is one of the most important and practical areas of STEM, combining creativity, design, and hands-on skills. CAD-to-Carry was created to help make those connections clearer. This course introduces students to design and manufacturing in a way that is accessible, engaging, and grounded in real projects. With the growing need for STEM skills in industries like manufacturing, this course gives students a first step into a world full of possibilities.

In CAD-to-Carry, students will design and create their own school-style bag, like a backpack, laptop bag, or satchel. Along the way, they will learn how to model in CAD, create drawings, choose materials, and build the final product. No experience with CAD or sewing is required. The course includes beginner-friendly guides to both, so students can jump in and start learning by doing. Students are encouraged to create their own designs, but there is also a full example project available that walks through every step, from the first sketch to the final stitch.

This course is designed to be flexible and easy to access. All materials use free or low-cost tools, and there is no need for special equipment. Students can access the course videos, models, and resources without needing to sign up or create an account. A dedicated subreddit is available for sharing progress, asking questions, and connecting with other learners. CAD-to-Carry is about more than learning technical skills; it is about discovering how STEM can be creative, practical, and part of everyday life.