Engineering & Manufacturing
Students explore emerging technologies and engineering aspects
Is your child interested in robotics, engineering, or science? With the career and college prep program,* your child can get started in a reliable career in manufacturing. The industry is projected to have 2.4 million available jobs up to 2028, according to a 2018 Deloitte study1. And as the industry continues to become more tech-savvy—applying a digital edge to manufacturing, construction, and STEM jobs has never been more critical. Modern manufacturing leans heavily on robotics and mechatronics for automation, making it an ideal career field for those who want to pursue math and science without being confined to a traditional lab.
Career pathways include:
Advanced Manufacturing Pathway
This pathway prepares students to work with customers to ensure the manufacturing process produces a product that meets or exceeds customer expectations. They also monitor the manufacturing process and the materials used to make the product.
Students will:
- Explore manufacturing careers and prepare to apply for and succeed in their first job
- Learn how manufacturing companies operate, including the use of computers and automation in manufacturing
- Complete hands-on projects designed to provide insight into the world of manufacturing
- Explore the principles and techniques involved in lean manufacturing, such as minimizing waste and improving workflow.
Heavy Machine Operations Pre-Apprenticeship Pathway
Knowing how to operate machinery that helps create essential structures is a sought-after skill. This pathway prepares students for a career in equipment operations for industries like construction and machining. They’ll begin with a general exploration of construction and move into the specifics of machinery.
Students will:
- Explore the many facets of the construction world to find their interest
- Develop the mathematics skills necessary for the construction field
- Learn about construction equipment and its various functions
- Learn what it takes to maintain heavy machinery for construction
Engineering & Technology Pathway
Engineers make the world work. This pathway starts with the fundamentals of engineering and progresses into more targeted learning. Students gain the knowledge and skills for jobs such as surveying and mapping technician and engineer.
Students will:
- Discover areas of specialization and what it takes to succeed as an engineer
- Learn product design from concept to manufacturing
- Study the physical and chemical principles applied in engineering
- See how engineers create work that improves societies around the world
What could my future look like in this career field?*
*Data is from Lightcast and is updated frequently.
FAQs
Curious about manufacturing careers or exploring education options? Read some of our most frequently asked questions.
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Real-World Skills Taught in the Classroom
See how Brent Johnson, a career and college prep teacher, helps students explore careers through sharing knowledge, hands-on experience, and certification test preparation that make them even more employable after graduation.
Learn more about course offerings in other career fields.
*The career and college prep program is offered to eligible high school students. Some schools also offer career exploration in middle school.
**Many Microsoft®️ Office certificates can be earned after completing one course. Other certificates require more classes to be better prepared, and students who participate in the program for at least two years will have further preparation for certification testing.
***Opportunities vary by school; please visit your school page or check with your school counselor.