How it Works

How Project S.E.R.V.E. works with Universities

Project S.E.R.V.E. helps universities create the next generation of STEM professionals. Since 2009, we’ve worked with thousands of students to enrich their academic journeys with experiential learning opportunities that help injured veterans and emergency responders.

A group of nine young adults and a man in a wheelchair posing for a photo in a room decorated with U.S. and other flags, sports equipment, and tools.

Identify the Quality
of Life Challenge.

Project S.E.R.V.E. works with engineering faculty to identify and understand the challenge faced by the participant to pinpoint a solution.

Five young men standing together at a research or academic conference, holding various items, with poster boards in the background.

Assign to a
University Team.

The Project S.E.R.V.E. program manager acts as the liaison between the participant and a team of engineering students and faculty.

A man in safety glasses and a black Nike hoodie operating a large industrial milling machine in a workshop.

Create a
Personalized Project.

Project S.E.R.V.E. manages the project from conception to completion, including all communication and coordination with the students, faculty, and participants.

Group of four young adults working with a bow and arrow archery simulator indoors.

Develop and Build.

Over the course of the academic year (9-10 months), the University Team designs and builds a custom adaptive device, interacting with the participant virtually and in-person on a recurring basis.

A scientist in a white lab coat and blue gloves Uses a pipette in a laboratory setting.

“The rigorous problem-solving, feedback integration,
and iterative design processes that I learned while
participating in the program laid a strong foundation
for my work ethic. These skills proved invaluable at
my summer internship with the NIH.”

Alessandra B Coogan

George Mason University
Biomedical Engineering Student
2023/24 Participant

George Mason University logo with green and gold initials GM and full name in black text

Interested in joining Project S.E.R.V.E. as a participating university?