Boise State New Product Development Lab
Faculty Mentor Information
Sarah Haight, Boise State University
Presentation Date
7-15-2026
Abstract
The New Product Development Lab at Boise State University has provided me with hands-on experience in engineering design, product development, and manufacturing. Working with entrepreneurs throughout the Pacific Northwest, I have helped transform early-stage concepts into functional prototypes by applying the engineering design process. My responsibilities have included computer-aided design (CAD), materials research, engineering analysis, prototyping, and evaluating manufacturing methods to create practical, market-ready products.
One project I contributed to was Barqhook, a semi-permanent backpack hook. For this project, I conducted material selection research, developed CAD models, and performed static stress and strain simulations to identify a material that balanced strength, durability, and cost. After evaluating several manufacturing methods, I selected waterjet cutting because it offered the necessary precision while remaining cost-effective. The product is currently undergoing iterative testing and refinement to improve its load-bearing performance before commercialization. This experience has strengthened my technical skills while demonstrating the value of collaboration, iterative design, and practical problem-solving in engineering.
Boise State New Product Development Lab
The New Product Development Lab at Boise State University has provided me with hands-on experience in engineering design, product development, and manufacturing. Working with entrepreneurs throughout the Pacific Northwest, I have helped transform early-stage concepts into functional prototypes by applying the engineering design process. My responsibilities have included computer-aided design (CAD), materials research, engineering analysis, prototyping, and evaluating manufacturing methods to create practical, market-ready products.
One project I contributed to was Barqhook, a semi-permanent backpack hook. For this project, I conducted material selection research, developed CAD models, and performed static stress and strain simulations to identify a material that balanced strength, durability, and cost. After evaluating several manufacturing methods, I selected waterjet cutting because it offered the necessary precision while remaining cost-effective. The product is currently undergoing iterative testing and refinement to improve its load-bearing performance before commercialization. This experience has strengthened my technical skills while demonstrating the value of collaboration, iterative design, and practical problem-solving in engineering.