Course Map and Curriculum
- Exploring Engineering & Design
- Engineering Design 1
- Engineering Design 2
- Engineering & Design Capstone
- Robotics 1
- Robotics 2
Exploring Engineering & Design
Exploring Engineering & Design is an introductory course designed to ignite the passion for engineering in freshman students. This quarter-long course provides a glimpse into the exciting world of engineering through hands-on projects and activities. Students will learn the basics of engineering design and problem-solving. A key component of the course is learning how to create 3D models using SolidWorks, a widely used software in the engineering industry. Towards the end of the course, students will have the opportunity to bring their designs to life by 3D printing a small item. This class serves as a gateway to other engineering courses offered in the program, giving students a taste of what they can expect in their future studies.
Engineering Design 1
Explore the exciting world of engineering in this year-long, project based, elective course! Engineering Design 1 is open to all students and all skill levels. No prior engineering experience required. In this class, students will develop an impressive array of skills while working towards designing and manufacturing their own prototype mechanisms. Students will learn how to use SolidWorks*, 3D printers, laser cutters and metrology tools while also learning best practices for designing and manufacturing parts. The class content is delivered as a series of in-class, hands-on projects. Unleash your creativity and join the next generation of builders, designers and engineers at Tigard High School!
*SolidWorks is a professional, industry standard 3D modeling software used in many engineering and manufacturing careers.
- Students can earn up to 6 college credit hours from Portland Community College (PCC)
- Students will have the opportunity to earn several SolidWorks certifications:
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate - Academic Certification (CSWA–Mechanical Design)
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional - Academic Certification (CSWP - Academic)
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional Advanced Drawing Tools (CSWPA-DT)
- More information: https://www.solidworks.com/certifications/academic-certification
Engineering Design 2
After successfully completing Engineering 1, students will have the opportunity to take their engineering and manufacturing skills to the next level with Engineering 2. In this course, students will learn about advanced manufacturing technologies, with an emphasis on precision machining and part verification. Students will use cutting-edge industrial manufacturing and inspection equipment to create parts they designed in SolidWorks. Key topics covered in this class include learning Mastercam software, learning Calypso software, conducting part inspections with hand tools, 5S organizational practices, using a 5 Axis CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine, using a CMM (coordinate measuring machine), learning about GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing) and understanding the importance of quality control in manufacturing.
- Students will have an additional opportunity to earn SolidWorks certifications:
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate - Academic Certification (CSWA–Mechanical Design)
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional - Academic Certification (CSWP - Academic)
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional Advanced Drawing Tools (CSWPA-DT)
- More information: https://www.solidworks.com/certifications/academic-certification
Engineering & Design Capstone
In the Engineering Capstone class, students will be treated as employees of the fictional engineering company “THS Engineering” and the teacher will be their manager. At the beginning of the course, students will be put in teams and assigned projects created by the company’s customers. These customers are members of the school/local community who have identified real world problems that need engineering solutions. Students will learn how to use tools like Gantt Charts and Houses of Quality to effectively manage their projects. Throughout the project, students will be expected to regularly communicate with the customers to provide updates and get feedback. Each project will involve problem solving, design work, manufacturing, part verification and extensive documentation explaining what was done to arrive at a solution. This class will allow students to improve their project management, communication, and professionalism skills in addition to the technical skills they have been learning.
Robotics 1
Robotics 1 is a hands-on course designed to introduce high school students to the exciting field of robotics. Students will learn the fundamental concepts of robotics, including robot design, programming, electronics, and problem-solving. Through a series of engaging projects and activities, students will gain practical skills in building and programming robots to perform various tasks. The course will also cover social implications of robotics, inspiring students to think critically about the impact of technology on society. No prior robotics experience is required, making this course ideal for students interested in exploring STEAM fields.
Robotics 2
Robotics 2 builds on the foundation established in Robotics 1, delving deeper into advanced topics in robotics and mechatronics. Students will explore advanced programming concepts, including object-oriented programming and algorithms, using languages such as Python and C/C++. Students will develop more sophisticated robot behaviors. Students will also learn advanced electronics, kinematics, and dynamics, providing them with the knowledge and skills to tackle complex robotics projects.