How Project S.E.R.V.E. works with Veterans and Emergency Responders

Project S.E.R.V.E works with America’s bravest across the country to provide personalized engineering solutions that enhance their independence, mobility, and participation in activities they love.

A person in a Duke sweatshirt is working on a recumbent tricycle in a laboratory or workshop setting, with various equipment and tools around.

Understand the Real-Life Challenge

Project S.E.R.V.E. begins by listening to each veteran or emergency responder to understand the daily barriers impacting independence, mobility, or quality of life.

Four students working together on a mechanical project in a workshop, with tools and metal parts on the table.

Pair with the Right University Team

We match each participant with a university engineering team equipped to design and build a solution tailored to their specific needs.

A group of four young men at a conference or exhibition, with one sitting on a chair adjusting a prosthetic limb, and the other three standing around watching. Behind them are display posters and booths.

Co-Design the Solution

Students work directly with participants to design, prototype, and refine solutions through real-world testing and collaboration.

Build and Put Solutions to Work

Over the academic year, teams build and refine custom solutions until they are ready for real-world use—restoring independence and improving daily life.

HOW WE WORK: FOR UNIVERSITIES
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