Engineering
Precision & Machining Technology
Precision Machining is an introductory course in manufacturing processes associated with metal fabrication. The course begins with students learning to work safely with common hand tools and power equipment found in industry, such as the drill press, horizontal bandsaw, metal lathe, vertical mill, welding equipment, and CNC plasma cutter. Students will master print reading, measurement and layout, and most importantly safety. Students will study physical characteristics of common metal types and explore how these properties affect the design of a project. Machine proficiency will be demonstrated through the design and construction of numerous projects, including a metal tool box, a 3-D welded object, and a project of the student’s own design.
Principles of Engineering (PLTW)
Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics, including mechanisms, the strength of structures and materials, and automation. Students develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation.
AP Computer Science Principles (PLTW)
Computer Science Principles (CSP) develops students' computational thinking and problem-solving skills. The course engages students by introducing them to computationally intensive career paths. CSP fosters creativity and collaboration while developing programming expertise and exploring the workings of the internet. CSP implements up to eight different computer languages in projects involving app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, robotics and simulations. Using Python® as a primary tool, students explore and become inspired by career paths that utilize computing, discover tools that foster creativity and collaboration, and use what they’ve learned to tackle challenges like app development and simulation. It is recommended that students take SmashCode before taking this course. Computer Science Principles is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP CSP exam for college credit.
Engineering Design & Development (PLTW)
The knowledge and skills students acquire throughout PLTW Engineering come together in Engineering Design and Development as they identify an issue and then research, design, and test a solution, ultimately presenting their solution to a panel of engineers. Students apply the professional skills they have developed to document a design process to standards, completing Engineering Design and Development ready to take on any post-secondary program or career.
Students taking the Woodworking & Carpentry course will study trees and how the properties of wood affect the design of a project. Students will design and construct several wood projects during the year, such as a picture frame, a secret box, a candle holder, a pen, a toolbox and more. A high emphasis is placed on safety around hand and power tools. Students will use a wide variety of hand and power tools to construct their projects, including a table saw, jointer, and routers.
The Aerospace Engineering course propels students’ learning in the fundamentals of atmospheric and space flight. As they explore the physics of flight, students bring the concepts to life by designing an airfoil, propulsion system, and rockets. They learn basic orbital mechanics using industry-standard software. They also explore robot systems through projects such as remotely operated vehicles.
From smartphones to appliances, digital circuits are all around us. This course provides a foundation for students who are interested in electrical engineering, electronics, or circuit design. Students study topics such as combinational and sequential logic and are exposed to circuit design tools used in industry, including logic gates, integrated circuits, and programmable logic devices.
Introduction to Engineering Design (PLTW)
Students taking Introduction to Engineering Design dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3-D modeling software, and use an engineering notebook to document their work.
Civil Engineering & Architecture (PLTW)
In Civil Engineering and Architecture, students learn important aspects of building and site design and development. They apply math, science, and standard engineering practices to design both residential and commercial projects and document their work using 3-D architectural design software.
In Environmental Sustainability, students investigate and design solutions in response to real-world challenges related to clean and abundant drinking water, food supply, and renewable energy. Applying their knowledge through hands-on activities and simulations, students research and design potential solutions to these true-to-life challenges.