Through this program, Tech's ID students annually explore the intricate world of neon art and engineering, a key component of the Thomas Volpe ’53 UrbanGlass Initiative. The collaboration allows students to gain insight into the science of noble gases and electrical currents that bring neon designs to life, as well as practice the delicate art of welding and bending glass tubes. The curriculum extends beyond neon, giving students a chance to engage in various glass fabrication techniques such as kilnforming, coldworking, and moldblowing.

The partnership with UrbanGlass is a unique program, allowing a fusion of students' creative brilliance with hands-on, real-world experience. It also fosters valuable connections with professional artists and designers.

Brooklyn Tech’s ID major bridges artistic innovation with engineering design, equipping students with a wide array of technical skills, from materials science and quality control to 3D modeling, rapid prototyping, and intellectual property research.

Launched in 2020, the Thomas Volpe ’53 UrbanGlass Initiative represents a collaboration between Brooklyn Tech, UrbanGlass, and St. Francis College. This partnership merges the creative energy of UrbanGlass, the technical expertise of Brooklyn Tech’s ID program, and the entrepreneurial focus of SFC. All ID students engage with UrbanGlass presentations, with juniors participating in workshops and seniors completing the Senior Project Course in neon design. Now in its fourth year, the Initiative continues to inspire and elevate Brooklyn Tech’s students to new creative and technical heights.