This model turned out much better than I expected! The console shape was drawn in 3D CAD software and then cut on our CNC mill in tooling board. The instrument panel was made from white ABS plastic painted black and then laser cut and engraved -- this process removes the black paint and lets the white plastic show through -- a very cool effect. The instruments are color laser printed on glossy paper and then set behind the laser engraved panels which amazingly, gives it the effect of actually being back lit.

The control stick in this image was made from geometry purchase (for $9.95) at a site that sells meshes. It was a complete joystick that we modified to look more similar to (although not an exact replica) the helicopter we were modeling.