Students at the José Luis Castillo Puche VET Center are learning about Industry 4.0 through real-world manufacturing projects and tools at ShiftVET.
During Activity A2.3 of the Erasmus+ ShiftVET project, students from José Luis Castillo Puche (JLCP), supported by CETEM, completed a series of practical projects that combined digital design and advanced manufacturing technologies in a realistic vocational training environment.
Working in small teams, participants developed complete production workflows using 3D scanning, 3D printing, and CNC machining. Rather than learning each technology separately, students experienced how these tools complement one another throughout a real manufacturing process, from digitization and prototyping to the production of final wooden components.
One of the most valuable aspects of the activity was the opportunity to work directly with professional equipment and software commonly used in the furniture and woodworking industries. Students scanned real objects, designed functional components, prepared CNC machining strategies, and produced physical prototypes, gaining practical experience that closely mirrored industrial practice.
The projects also fostered teamwork, technical problem-solving, and decision-making. Although participants faced challenges such as CNC programming adjustments, dimensional tolerances in 3D printing, and mesh optimization after scanning, these situations became valuable learning opportunities that strengthened both technical and transferable skills.
Feedback collected after the activity showed a very high level of satisfaction. Students particularly appreciated the hands-on approach, the relevance of the technologies to their future careers, and the opportunity to work on projects that simulate real-world professional scenarios.
Through initiatives such as these, ShiftVET continues to strengthen vocational education by helping learners develop the digital skills required by the manufacturing sector while bringing Industry 4.0 technologies closer to future professionals.