8100: Introduction to Engineering Design (1 credit PAR, Gr. 9-12, weighted)

This course is for students interested in engineering and architecture related fields. Units of study include sketching, multi-views, pictorial and 3-D drawing, sections, dimensions, auxiliary and architectural drawing. Students will be expected to use 2-D and 3-D CAD software to solve problems and present designs. Technical reading and math skills are needed. This course is the first course in the PLTW program. PLTW is a nationally recognized engineering curriculum being offered through the Independence School District. For more information regarding PLTW go to www.pltw.org.

8119: Computer Integrated Manufacturing (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12, weighted)

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design

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.

8106: Digital Electronics (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12, weighted)

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design

This course is designed so that students gain skills in basic electronics, logical thinking, problem solving, and electronic troubleshooting. Students will seek answers to questions such as how do robots make decisions, how does a calculator work, and what does an electrical engineer do? By gaining a basic understanding of digital electronics in high school, a student gains a head start on an engineering career—no matter what field. Digital Electronics is a course in applied logic that encompasses the application of electronic circuits and devices. Computer simulation software is used to design and test digital circuitry prior to the actual construction of circuits and devices.

8110: Civil Engineering and Architecture (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12, weighted)

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design

The major focus of this course is completing long-term projects that involve the development of property sites. As students learn about various aspects of civil engineering and architecture, they apply what they learn to the design and development of a property. The course provides teachers and students freedom to develop the property as a simulation or to students to model the experiences that civil engineers and architects face. Students work in teams, exploring hands on activities and projects to learn the characteristics of civil engineering and architecture. In addition, students use 3-D design software to help them design solutions to solve major course projects. Students learn about documenting their project, solving problems, and communicating their solutions to their peers and members of the professional community of civil engineering and architecture.

8116: Aerospace Engineering (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12, weighted)

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design

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. Students also explore robot systems through projects such as remotely operated vehicles.

8826: Unmanned Flight Safety & Operation (2 credits PAR, Gr. 12, weighted) College Credit Available

Prerequisite: Aerospace Engineering

The drone market is exploding. This course will provide valuable learning experiences for anyone entering the utilities field, aviation, marketing, building maintenance, shipping, and many more careers. Course curriculum will be through the Unmanned Safety Institute, a premier instructional group for unmanned flight. This course follows Project Lead the Way's Aerospace Engineering class and provides the opportunity to earn certification to fly a drone. 

8820: Aviation (2 credits PAR, Gr. 12, weighted) College Credit Available

Prerequisite: Aerospace Engineering

This course, offered through the Blue Springs School District, is a year-long program that includes private pilot ground school, aeronautics, remotely piloted aircraft basics/drones, and principles of helicopter flight. Fees are associated with this program for materials.

8621: Internship in STEM Careers - Cerner Scholars (2 credits PAR, Gr. 12) 

Cerner is a leading company in the Kansas City area that provides health information solutions to improve the well-being of individuals and communities. Cerner creates leading-edge health information technology through strategies that empower organizations to know, manage and engage their populations. The Cerner Scholars program at Summit Technology Academy provides students with an opportunity to gain a deeper learning experience related to their interest in computing and technology.