In connection with the John Olson Advanced Manufacturing Center and Northeast Passage, the Olson Engineering Alliance (OEA) uses its members' experience in engineering, adapted physical education, and therapy to help people with disabilities overcome barriers and participate in sports and recreational activities. The club seeks to help students engage with philanthropy and community outreach. It shows an education from UNH can provide more than just a career; it can provide meaningful change and impact to our neighbors with disabilities. The OEA club works primarily on engineering adaptative sports equipment and modifications.
Hands-on Experience for UNH Undergrads
Gain real-world experience in prototyping, manufacturing, and human services by working on projects that combine technical innovation with community impact. Make connections and turn classroom knowledge into real-world impact.
Club Purpose
The OEA aims to inspire future engineers and health & human services professionals with a strong sense of social responsibility through hands-on, philanthropic work. Members will collaborate with Northeast Passage, a nonprofit adaptive sports organization, to design and build custom equipment for children and adults with disabilities. Projects will be guided by mentors and shaped by the lived experiences of individuals with disabilities, ensuring meaningful, inclusive design. This club is open to all UNH students but is particularly beneficial to CEPS students interested in prototyping and design, and CHHS students seeking experience in adaptive health, human services, and community engagement.
Club Meetings
Meetings occur biweekly at the Olson Center and Northeast Passage, between the 8 am to 5 pm business hours, club hours outside of normal operation cannot be held at the center.
Who Should Join?
The OEA is open to all UNH undergraduate students, regardless of major. Whether you're passionate about inclusive design, creating accessible experiences for all, or just want to build something meaningful - there's a place for you here.
That said, students in UNH's CHHS and CEPS majors might find these types of projects particularly engaging.
What is Northeast Passage?
Northeast Passage is a UNH-based nonprofit that creates adaptive sports and recreation opportunities for people with disabilities, giving children and adults the chance to stay active, build independence, and connect with their community. They partner with students and professionals to design innovative, inclusive solutions that make these experiences possible.
Membership
Members must abide by the club constitution guidelines.
To be considered an active member, attendance is required a minimum of once a month.
Membership in OEA may not be denied on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, age, sex including pregnancy, childbirth (and related conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, marital status, partnership status, disability, citizenship, or any other legally prohibited basis in accordance with federal, state and city laws.
