From understanding the alchemy of noble gases mingling with electrical currents to illuminate a neon design, to wielding torches for welding and bending glass tubes, each student transformed their creative visions into radiant reality. The Thomas Volpe ‘53 UrbanGlass Initiative program's innovative curriculum extends far beyond neon, allowing Tech's ID students to explore a diverse spectrum of glass fabrication techniques, from kilnforming and coldworking to moldblowing.

Dr. Mandery highlighted the uniqueness of the UrbanGlass partnership, describing it as “a fusion of students' imaginative brilliance with hands-on, real-world experience. The program not only nurtures creativity but also forges invaluable connections with professional artists and designers.”

Tech’s ID major, at the intersection of artistic vision and engineering design, equips students with a myriad of skills. From materials science, testing, and quality control to technical drawing, 3D modeling, computer-integrated manufacturing, and rapid prototyping (3D printing and laser cutting), students gain a holistic understanding of the design process. Intellectual property and patent research are also woven into this rich tapestry of learning.

Founded in 2020, the Thomas Volpe ’53 UrbanGlass Technology Initiative is a partnership between Brooklyn Tech, UrbanGlass and St. Francis College to combine the creativity of the arts center, Brooklyn Tech’s Industrial Design major program and SFC entrepreneurship program.  All students in the major experience Urban Glass presentations; a cohort of juniors take a Junior Survey – Kilnforming, Coldworking and Moldblowing Workshop at Urban Glass; and a group of seniors complete the Senior Project Course in neon design. Now in its third year, the Initiative continues to be a beacon of inspiration, propelling Brooklyn Tech’s Industrial Design students to new creative and technical heights.