Pre-Engineering

The Pathway to Engineering program incorporates a nationally recognized curriculum by Project Lead the Way. PLTW engineering is more than just another high school engineering program. It applies engineering, science, math, and technology to solve complex, open-ended problems in a real-world context. You will focus on the process of defining and solving a problem, not on getting the "right" answer. You will learn how to apply STEM knowledge, skills, and habits of mind to make the world a better place through innovation. The program provides opportunities to develop highly transferable skills in collaboration, communication, and critical thinking, which are relevant for any technology career.

Pre-Engineering is oriented toward college preparatory for a four year engineering program. During the program there will be the opportunity to learn 3D Mechanical Design Modeling CAD and 3D Architectural CAD. These design tools could lead to a position as a draftsman at a mechanical organization.

Participants in Pathway to Engineering receive two Project Lead The Way (AP+PLTW) Student Recognition Certificates, qualifications that demonstrate to colleges and employers that you are ready for advanced course work and interested in careers in this discipline.

Many of our students continue their education at NPC in the Engineering program.

Introduction to Engineering Design

Students 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 3D modeling software, and use an engineering notebook to document their work

Principles of Engineering

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.

Aerospace Engineering

This 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.

Engineering Design and Development

The knowledge and skills students acquire throughout PLTW Engineering come together in Engineering Design and Development (EDD) 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 EDD ready to take on any post-secondary program or career.

Enrollment Criteria

All programs in the technical center have three class periods available for enrollment. In the event there are more applicants for a section than seats available, students will be asked to choose an alternate period. If the section(s) are still over enrollment capacity, the following additional criteria will be used to determine acceptance into the program:

1. Minimum sixth grade reading level
2. Minimum sixth grade math level
3. Minimum 2.0 GPA
4. Successful completion (C or above) of one or more credits in an approved computer course

Final determination will be at the discretion of the instructor and the center director.