This article describes the results of well-succeeded design-implement courses developed at the Military Institute of Engineering (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil). The implementation of these courses is part of the ongoing transformation process in engineering education and considers simultaneously aspects from different CDIO standards, embedding active-learning methods and creating additional opportunities for integrated-learning experiences within the Institute. The article also describes important aspects of planning and execution, pedagogical results obtained and provides a benchmark for other teachers interested in implementing similar activities.