Milligan University hosted Go Baby Go Appalachia on Dec. 12, 2025, where first-year engineering students modified ride-on toys to make them accessible for children with disabilities. Students added joysticks, large push buttons and other adjustable controls while partnering annually with AdapToPlay. The hands-on project provided technically demanding engineering experience, reinforced teamwork, and reflected Milligan’s mission of Christian servant-leadership.
Milligan Engineering Students Adapt Ride-On Toys to Improve Accessibility for Children
Elizabethton, Tenn. — Dec. 12, 2025 — Milligan University’s engineering program hosted Go Baby Go Appalachia on Wednesday, a hands-on initiative that helps children with disabilities access play through customized ride-on vehicles.
First-year engineering students completed a mechatronics project that modified battery-powered ride-on toys by installing joysticks, large push buttons and other adjustable control systems tailored to each child's abilities. Milligan partners annually with the nonprofit AdapToPlay to assemble and adapt these vehicles for local children.
Real-World Engineering Experience
Greg Harrell, the Malcolm C. and Ruth G. Myers Chair of Engineering, described converting the toys as “technically demanding” and emphasized the learning opportunities the project provides.
Milligan University
“Through this process, students get a heavy dose of engineering problem solving as they learn how to read engineering drawings, follow a technical guide to build a machine, and use tools and calculations to figure out tasks like replacing a steering wheel with a joystick,” Harrell said.
Student Impact and Teamwork
Seth Wilder, a first-year student who participated in the program, said the experience strengthened his commitment to engineering and gave him practical teamwork experience.
“The process of constructing the car was both challenging and fun. It was a good way to get to know some of my classmates and learn how to work together as a team,” Wilder said.
Harrell noted the project also reflects Milligan’s mission of Christian servant-leadership by encouraging students to apply technical skills in service to others. The event blended community service, inclusive design and applied learning, giving students direct experience in accessibility engineering.
About Go Baby Go Appalachia: Go Baby Go is a widely recognized program that adapts ride-on toys to improve mobility and play opportunities for children with motor impairments. Milligan’s annual partnership with AdapToPlay helps bring these resources to families in the region.
