Hillan’s 3D design to be used by NASA

The official name Robert Hillan gave his award-winning design is “multi purpose precision maintenance tool.”

It is a one piece 3D-printed pry bar, wrench and sockets drive that was chosen best in the state in the national NASA 3D Printer Challenge, a competition in which students designed 3D printed tools that could be used by NASA.

Hillan knew he had placed in the top four in the nation but the Enterprise High School senior learned Friday that he was the state winner in the nationwide contest.

The next step is a trip to Huntsville to watch his device being printed for use on the international space station.

“Robert is an excellent student,” said EHS engineering teacher Nick Cuizio. “It’s a pleasure to teach such a motivated and bright student. He’s done a fantastic job—this is very exciting news.”

Hillan, the son of Robert and Catherine Hillan, said that the original design he created would be modified before going to Huntsville. “I contacted two NASA astronauts and an engineer and they gave me feedback,” he said. “I’m going to change it to make it more useable.”

Hillan said he plans on studying Aerospace Engineering at North Carolina State University or the University of Alabama at Huntsville, after serving in the Air Force.

“I have wanted to work for NASA for at least the last 10 years,” Hillan said, adding that becoming an astronaut is his dream.

“I thought it would be best to work towards that goal because even if I don’t achieve it, I’ll be better off,” he said. “I’m hoping to go into the military so I can achieve that goal.”