Programs: Pre Engineering

Overview Pre- Engineering

Pre-engineering introduces many fields of engineering to high school students.

by Tricia Nagel

Pre-engineering courses are multi-discipline, fast-pace, hands-on class that is ideal for any student interested in exploring math and science fields. ~T. Nagel

Training in the Pre-Engineering lab is done in a modular format. The modules include introduction to CAD, design, basic electricity, robotics, material handling, programmable process controllers, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, CNC programming, precision measurement, electric motor control, and quality assurance (see AE Brochure).

American industry is under constant pressure to find new ways to reduce costs and improve efficiency. As a result, domestic companies continue to implement technologies such as robotics, process control, computers and factory automation in order to enhance productivity.

Industrial automation, computer-assisted manufacturing and robotics have opened new fields in the planning, installation and service of automated equipment and systems. Many industrial companies are improving their production and processing operations by incorporating changing technology.

The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council reports that nearly 90% of manufacturers in the U.S. are now using computer-aided design, and more than two-thirds use computer-numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools, statistical process control, just-in-time inventory control, total quality management and computer-aided manufacturing.

The lab uses training equipment that was originally designed for Caterpillar, Inc. The equipment was designed to provide up to date training using practices and tools that are currently used in industrial plants. Students will learn how state of the art manufacturing systems function and are maintained. The curriculum integrates these industrial processes, computer based simulation, interactive computer learning modules, and instructor led activities. Some of the innovative features of this curriculum are:

►	Complete Range of Career Exploration Allows students to explore a larger number of engineering and technical careers. It offers a more extensive range of technical topics than any other program today.
►	Integrated Academic Applications The Amatrol curriculum has been infused with math and science to show students why they need to understand these critical areas. Extensive application throughout the curriculum allows students to improve their skills in these areas.
►	Extensive Articulation to College The Pre-Engineering curriculum enables students to articulate to post-secondary programs more extensively because it has greater depth and breadth than other programs. Alignment with content is keyed to specific post-secondary standards, enabling students to get up to 18 hours of credit at participating colleges and universities. The content is keyed to specific technical courses enable students to receive required course credit, not just elective credit. .
►	Customized to Student Abilities and Interests Amatrol's Pre-Engineering program enables students with a wide range of interests and abilities to be successful. The curriculum uses an individualized format, and each curriculum topic has been layered so the depth gradually increases. Students learn each technical subject using a computer-based interactive multimedia curriculum, allowing them to learn about different things at the same time. Each student can learn at their own pace, focus on subjects that specifically interest them and work with materials that are appropriate for their abilities.
►	Industry Relevant Technical Skills The curriculum uses a unique skills-based design that focuses on teaching industry relevant technical skills. Students can gain college credit while learning to apply their skills in industry.
►	Team-Based Project Skills Students learn how to work on teams and solve real world problems through Amatrol’s team-based projects and the supporting project-related curriculum. Each project uses a thematic approach, which includes a cross-disciplinary blend of academics and multiple technical subjects that is built around a real project relating to one of the 7 major industry sectors. The supporting curriculum formally teaches students how to work on teams, problem solve, make presentations, and manage a project.