MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

EXPLORATORY AND INTRODUCTION TO MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY (3 credits)
All Grade 9 students go through the Exploratory Program.  Students deciding to enter the manufacturing technology field will be exposed to the basics of safety, as well as the use and care of hand tools, power tools and stationary equipment.  Manufacturing methods are initiated with an introduction to machinery and material types, along with their basic applications.  Students start with small metalworking projects, which lead to projects that are more complicated.  Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, blueprint reading and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY PRACTICES AND PRINCIPLES (3 credits)
In Grade 10, students are instructed in and demonstrate skills and knowledge in machine safety, measuring tools, speeds and feeds, lathe operation, mill operation, pedestal grinder, various types of cutting tools, and drill press operation.  Students continue to receive instruction in safety requirements and demonstrate sound safety practices.  Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, blueprint reading and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

PRECISION MACHINING AND INTRODUCTION
TO COMPUTER NUMERICAL CONTROL (CNC) (3 credits)
In  Grade  11,  students  continue  to  refine  skills introduced  in  Grade  10.  Students receive advanced  instruction  and  training  in the  use  of  measuring  tools,  material types, advanced lathe  operation,  advanced  mill  operation,  cylindrical  grinder operation, horizontal mill, heat treat,  layout  and  inspection.  Introduction  to  MasterCAM©,  computerized  numerical  control (CNC)  machining  and  programming  also  begins  in  grade  11.  Students continue to receive instruction   in   safety   requirements   and   demonstrate sound safety practices.  Students will perform in-school manufacturing projects for customers.  Students reaching an acceptable level of   proficiency   may be eligible for   Work   Based   Learning   (WBL).  Technology-related mathematics,    reading,    writing,    vocabulary,   blueprint reading and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

CNC AND ADVANCED MACHINE OPERATION (3 credits)
In Grade 12, students receive instruction and demonstrate skills in more advanced areas of manufacturing technology, such as lay-out and turning irregular shapes, turning eccentric, lap and honing, CNC programming, cutter sharpening, specialized vertical mill attachments and electrical discharge machines.  Students continue to receive instruction in safety requirements and demonstrate sound safety practices.  Students will continue to perform in-school manufacturing projects for customers.  Students will demonstrate the ability to complete a job application and interview and to perform entry-level job readiness and trade skills.
Students at all four grade levels will be assessed against industry recognized national standards.  The National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) is the nations’ only American National Standards Institute accredited developer for the precision manufacturing industry.  NIMS competency-based assessments are used to demonstrate mastery of program goals and earn students industry-recognized credentials.  Students reaching an acceptable level of proficiency may be eligible for Work Based Learning (WBL).  Technology-related mathematics, reading, writing, vocabulary, blueprint reading and science are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Students successfully completing this course of study will be able to pursue a two-year or a four-year degree in the area of manufacturing or mechanical engineering, or other related fields.  Graduates electing to enter the work force typically acquire positions as CNC operators or programmers, mold-makers, or engineering technicians. 

* College Career Pathways – Students successfully completing this program can receive advanced college credit.