Chapman University’s Fowler School of Engineering has donated 20 advanced 3D printers to the Orange Unified School District (OUSD), helping equip local students with tools that can spark creativity, innovation, and career readiness.

The donation was loaded and prepared for delivery at Chapman’s Keck Center for Science and Engineering by engineering students, faculty, staff, and Interim Dean Kendall Harris. The team delivered the printers to OUSD’s central warehouse, where Superintendent of Schools Dr. Rachel Monárrez welcomed the Chapman group and expressed appreciation.

“This donation strengthens a pipeline from our local community to Chapman and ultimately to industry,” Harris said. “We’re helping prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow by giving them access to technology today.”

The 3D printers will be distributed across 10 OUSD classrooms, supporting seven Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways and enhancing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) curriculum throughout the district. Students will be able to create everything from prototypes to artistic projects, gaining skills that are increasingly valuable in modern industries.

Harris noted that the partnership with OUSD aligns closely with the mission of the Fowler School of Engineering. “We believe engineering is about solving problems that make a difference in people’s lives,” Harris said. “By placing these printers in local classrooms, we’re not only providing equipment— we’re empowering students to think like innovators and see themselves as future engineers, designers, and creators.”

The gift reflects Chapman’s commitment to fostering innovation beyond its own campus and supporting the broader Orange community. Faculty and students in the Fowler School of Engineering regularly partner with local schools and organizations to share expertise, provide mentorship, and inspire the next generation of problem solvers.

Dr. Monárrez said the 3D printers will help OUSD further its mission of preparing students for success in college, careers, and life. “Weare grateful—this investment in our scholars will help spark creativity, support real-world problem-solving, and bring innovative learning to life in our classrooms,” she said.

By placing cutting-edge tools in the hands of local students, Chapman University hopes to encourage curiosity, creativity, and confidence— qualities that will serve them well whether they pursue higher education, enter the workforce, or become entrepreneurs.