Skill development courses are crucial in engineering education, enabling students to tackle complex engineering tasks while enhancing critical thinking and adaptability to industry shifts. This study focuses on the Prototyping, Fabrication, and Testing course offered to first-year engineering students as part of mandatory skill development curriculum. After completing three cycles of the course, this research presents comprehensive insights on its implementation, including student feedback and challenges encountered. The course followed a project-based learning (PBL) methodology, providing students with practical skills in both basic and advanced manufacturing techniques essential for product development. Hands-on engagement with real-world projects fostered an immersive learning experience. The study covers the course design, implementation, and evaluation, with particular attention to student feedback. Results indicated high levels of student enthusiasm, active participation, and a positive reception to the integration of theory with practical learning. Students gained significant skills in manufacturing and product development, while appreciating the collaborative environment that nurtured teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. This positive feedback underscores the PBL approach as an effective tool for engaging students and fostering essential engineering skills. Insights from this study will guide the future design and enhancement of similar courses.
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