We all know that engineers are a special breed of people, and as such, they need special gifts. Though many of you reading this post probably are engineers, share this list with your loved ones, who let’s face it, don’t get you and your left-brained nature. You love gifts that make you think, that challenge you and put your particular brand of smarts to use.
So without further delay, let’s get to those gift ideas that you can both give–and hopefully receive–that will keep you busy and happy on Christmas day.
1. OWI Robotic Arm. Let’s face it; most engineers have a thing for robots so don’t you think most of them would love a robotic arm to help them with their work? While, this one might not be able to do too many sophisticated things, but it’s still fun to build and to play with once it’s done, like shaking hands and getting it to pick up items. Find it here on Amazon for just over $50.
2. The Parrot Rolling Spider. This ultra-compact drone, controlled by your smartphone, will impress even the biggest technophile on your list. The Parrot Rolling Spider, which was designed using SolidWorks software, flies indoors and outdoors with surprising speed and stability. Learn how to pilot via the FreeFlight 3 app, which can be downloaded for free on iOS, Android, and on Windows 8.1 and Windows Phone 8.1. You can find it a list of available retailers here.
3. Math Formulas Tie. OK, so we all know that engineers as a whole are not known for their flair for fashion, but wearing this tie, which is loaded up with math formulas, will let everyone know that there’s an engineering brain at work. Just when you think ties are a passe gift, you find one that suits them to a tee and is something they’ll really enjoy wearing. Available for $45 at Uncommongoods.com.
4. Cams & Cranks. This one is perfect for those future engineers out there. Engino Mechanical Science: Cams and Cranks will help them learn all about cams and cranks and how they work together to convert energy. This line of toys is particularly made for those looking to help kickstart a child’s imagination and scientific reasoning. Get it for less than $25 here on Amazon.
5. Remote Controlled Machines. These Thames and Kosmos machines will do their bidding once they’re built and programmed to do so. Half the fun is making them and the other half is getting them to do what you want them to do. The engineers and other gear heads in your life will have fun tinkering with them and figuring out how they work. They are available here on Amazon for $70.
6. Hanz Inventor’s Kit. A smartphone holder is just one of the things that you can put together with this kit. Budding engineers can create gadgets using it to create cool stuff, promoting originality and inspiring future designers. Includes 10 “Brains,” 20 Beams, 4 Wheels, 4 Tires, 6 Rubber Bands, and instructions on how to build ideas. Find it on Amazon here.
7. I’m an Engineer Mug. Alright, so the engineer in your life may have to rely on the spellcheck, but they don’t need much assistance when it comes to math problems. It shows that engineers can have a sense of humor, even if they’re paid to be very pragmatic. Order it on Amazon for less than $20 here.
8. The Coolest Cooler. Though not available yet, get your loved ones on the preorder list—and save $50—for the Coolest Cooler. Launched via Kickstarter, this cooler features an 18-volt, battery-powered rechargeable blender, 5-watt Bluetooth speakers, a USB charger, an LED lid light, locking gear tie-down, a divider/cutting board, and extra wide, easy rolling wheels. When it’s time to party, this cooler parties hard.
9. The Jawbone Up24. This cool fitness wearable is an incredibly easy-to-use and enjoyable fitness tracker that counts steps, sleep, and calories. The Up24 is water-resistant, light, and comfortable to wear. The device syncs with iPhones and Android phones over Bluetooth. Only wearable rated as Excellent by CNET.com on its list of the Best Wearables of 2014.
10. Rocket Launch Set. Though it’s not exactly rocket science, they’ll have a lot of fun getting this rocket off the ground. Understanding the physics behind why it works will only add to the enjoyment for an engineer. Uses a standard Estes engines, this rocket can be blasted up to amazing heights of 1,000 feet. Available for approximately $20 from Amazon. Find it here.
Do you have any other creative gift ideas for engineers? If so, please feel free to add them below.
