Introduction to Microcontrollers
Learn the basics of microcontrolling and programming using an ESP32 and Arduino IDE.
Workshops at IEEE at USF
Mon 6:00 – 8:00 PM Thu 6:00 – 8:00 PM
Peer-led hands-on technical training
Our Technical Workshop series gives members hands-on, industry-certified training in the enterprise EDA tools engineers use every day. Sessions cover every EE track: power, RF, embedded, and security. We pair each tool with the practical do’s and don’ts of the field, so members build real workflow habits, not just tool familiarity. Everyone who takes part leaves with concrete, marketable skills ready to apply on day one.
Goals for the Year
Provide one technical workshop for our core-four engineering skills and one for every track in the Electrical Engineering department at USF.
Core Four
These workshops introduce key skills that every electrical engineering student can benefit from.
SolidWorks for Tinkerers
Learn how to measure components, create 3D models of objects, and apply general rules for 3D-printing components for electrical engineering projects.
Introduction to Soldering
Learn the basics of soldering, including wire-to-wire, wire-to-pad, through-hole (THT), and SMD soldering.
Introduction to PCB Design
Workshop series provided by Altium
Cover basic concepts of PCB design, mastering the fundamentals, component library creation and management, and high-speed PCB design.
Workshops by EE Track
Beyond the core four, workshops map to every Electrical Engineering track at USF so members can build skills aligned with their academic path.
Bioelectrical Systems
Introduction to Blood-Oxygenation Measurement
Introduction to the fundamental concepts behind pulse oximetry, coding using a pulse ox sensor, implementations, and use cases.
Communication Systems
Introduction to Communication Systems in Keysight SystemVue
Using QPSK, create a full TX–RX link and encode your own message. Introduction to encoding binary data into a signal and basic signal processing techniques.
Energy, Power, & Sustainability
Introduction to ETAP
Learn the basics of power systems analysis through one-line diagrams, varying loads, voltage drop analysis, short circuit analysis, protective equipment, and an overview of arc flash analysis.
Mechatronics, Robotics, & Embedded Systems
Introduction to Digital Twins
Model a mechatronic arm digital twin in MATLAB. Use encoders to map movement one-to-one, apply PID control, and compare real-life response to the digital twin.
Micro- and Nanoscale Systems
Introduction to Small-Signal Amplifiers in Cadence PSpice
Understand load-line fundamentals, quiescent points, bias tees, transconductance, output resistance, voltage gain, input and output impedance, decoupling and bypass capacitors, and device sizing and bias tradeoffs.
Introduction to Small-Signal ICs with CMOS in Cadence Virtuoso
Create a Virtuoso library using a CMOS PDK. Explore how device sizing tunes amplifier characteristics, perform transient analysis, and organize plots (C vs. V, CW I–V, loop gain, PM, GM, and more).
Wireless Circuits and Systems
Introduction to Matching Networks in Keysight ADS
Learn about impedance matching networks and design a single-stub matching network in ADS schematic. Explore S-parameter simulation, microstrip layout, and EM Momentum simulation.
Introduction to Antenna Design in Ansys HFSS
Learn the basics of planar antenna design, including substrate geometry, excitation, boundaries, meshing, and convergence.
Introduction to LNA Design in Keysight ADS
Learn the basics of biasing for noise figure, simultaneous matching, optimal source impedance, stability, and layout.
Introduction to Filter Design in Ansys Nuhertz, AEDT, and HFSS
Learn about filter functions, filter coefficients, LPP filter design, and stopband and passband attenuation. Use filter tools efficiently and understand schematic vs. layout differences in filter design.
Systems and Security
Introduction to HackTheBox with Meow (Capture the Flag)
Meow is a very easy Linux machine that guides players through setting up their attacking machines, connecting to HTB labs via VPN, and demonstrating the strategy for completing them.
Tools & Platforms
Every session is built around the enterprise software engineers use on the job, so members leave with experience in the same tools they will see in internships and industry.
Workshop Lab Sessions
Building, collaborating, and testing personal projects
A collaborative space where members turn ideas into finished projects. With tools, equipment, mentorship, and funding, they get support at every stage—from concept and prototyping to PCB design, enclosures, testing, and assembly.
Whether pursuing personal projects, academic work, or competition designs, Lab Sessions help members apply skills from the Technical Workshop series while gaining practical experience in the complete engineering design process. Completed projects are showcased at the annual USF Engineering Expo in front of industry professionals, faculty, and fellow students.
What Students Gain
- Portfolio-worthy projects that show real engineering ability
- Full design process experience, from concept to final build
- Support for personal, academic, and competition work
- A spot at the annual USF Engineering Expo in front of industry and faculty
Lab Details
Location: IEEE Lab — ENG 208
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Note: On days with a large-scale workshop, there is no Lab Session.
Students must complete required Lab Safety Courses and a quick competency check for specific equipment. If you are new, training and guidance will be provided.
During Lab Sessions You Will Have
- Access to tools, equipment, mentorship, technical guidance, and project funding
- Hands-on support from concept and prototyping through custom PCBs, enclosures, testing, and assembly
- Collaboration with fellow students, IEEE board members, and mentors
- Dedicated time for personal builds, academic hardware, and competition designs
Need Help or Have Questions?
Email: workshops@ieeeusf.com
Discord:
- Jacob Coleman — @jackdcole
- Nathan Frost — @shark_nate_0
- Khanh Vinh Mai — @vk1665
- Eunhak Lee — @eunhak7735