I've never heard of anyone learning thermodynamics/static/mechanical design/fluid dynamics/heat transfer/etc from a group of people gathering to discuss, challe

I've never heard of anyone learning thermodynamics/static/mechanical design/fluid dynamics/heat transfer/etc from a group of people gathering to discuss, challenge and support each other (other than in a school). Technological advancement has a lot to do with "improving the human condition" and the majority of significant advances come from those who have been through higher education.