PLTW Engineering Overview & Course Information
PROJECT LEAD THE WAY ENGINEERING
The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Cluster incorporate career opportunities in all aspects of engineering and engineering technologies. Students are engaged in courses such as Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, Digital Electronics, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, Engineering Design and Development, Aerospace Engineering, Biotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Architecture, Gateway to Technology, and Industrial Technology Education that will expose them to scientific research and development and professional and technical services in engineering, including laboratory and testing services.
COURSE OFFERINGS
Introduction to Engineering Design
Program Description: 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 Design
Program Description: 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.
Civil Engineering and Architecture
Program Description: 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 3D architecture design software.
Computer Integrated Manufacturing
Program Description: Manufactured items are part of everyday life, yet most students have not been introduced to the high-tech, innovative nature of modern manufacturing. This course illuminates the opportunities related to understanding manufacturing. At the same time, it teaches students about manufacturing processes, product design, robotics, and automation. Students can earn a virtual manufacturing badge recognized by the National Manufacturing Badge system.
Digital Electronics
Program Description: 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.
Engineering Design and Development
Program Description: 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.
CERTIFICATIONS