The 2025–2026 Pittsburg State University Plastics Engineering Technology Senior Project Team is creating a custom rotational mold to produce a scaled down Gus the Gorilla statue. This mold is based on an existing larger Gus design and has been redesigned to support long-term educational use and outreach.

To manufacture the mold, students will 3D print mold patterns, which will then be used to create poured mold halves. This approach reflects real-world tooling practices and allows students to gain hands-on experience with both additive manufacturing and mold fabrication techniques used in the plastics industry.

Once completed, the rotational mold and finished Gorilla statues will be used for laboratory instruction, student training, department tours, alumni engagement, and recruiting events.

Educational Impact
Through this project, students gain practical experience in rotational mold design and tooling, additive manufacturing for pattern development, mold casting and assembly, material selection and venting, wall-thickness control, and process optimization.

Donor Recognition
Donors who contribute $100 or more will receive a finished Gus the Gorilla statue produced using the completed rotational mold as a thank you for their support.

Finished statues are intended to be picked up in person. If shipping is requested, shipping arrangements and costs will be handles separately.

Thank you for your consideration of a gift in support of our senior project! With your support, we are able to provide students with invaluable educational experiences and serve as a resource for future generations of Gorillas!

2025-2026 PSU Plastics Engineering Technology Senior Project Team Members

From left to right:
Asa Hulvey, Caden Egbert, Parker Beckmann

Faculty Advisor (not pictured): Paul Herring

Below is a breakdown of all expenses.

Total budget for project - $6,000.00

Project sponsors will receive a finished Gorilla statue produced from the rotational mold as a thank-you for their support. Sponsors will also be recognized in project documentation and outreach materials.

Support the 2025-2026 PSU Plastics Engineering Technology Senior Project

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