Manufacturing Technology

The Manufacturing Technology Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program encompasses a comprehensive metals program that offers hands-on projects in welding, sheet metal fabrication, electrical circuits, and machining. Students gain proficiency in the safe use of industry-standard equipment, including digital read-outs and Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) machines. This curriculum not only serves as an excellent entry point for those aspiring to pursue manufacturing and construction-related careers but also equips individuals with valuable skills for a lifetime of personal use.

The program covers introductory courses in sheet metal fabrication, metal forging, shielded metal arc welding, and gas metal arc welding, progressing to more advanced classes in machine technology. Advanced Metals courses provide opportunities for specialization in sheet metal fabrication, welding, or machining, incorporating advanced techniques such as tungsten inert gas welding and CNC machining. Students can further enhance their skills through real-world experiences in work placements within the manufacturing technology field, and the program also offers independent study options focusing on leadership and project-based learning. Additionally, courses cover electrical circuits and technical drafting, including the use of AutoCAD software for designing various drawings. College Now credit is available for select courses, making the program accessible to students in grades 9 to 12.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate proficiency in sheet metal fabrication, metal forging, gas metal arc welding, and heat treatment of metals through the creation of practical projects such as a sheet metal toolbox, a sheet metal rose, and a forged chisel.
• Acquire foundational skills in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (manual or stick welding) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (MIG or wire-drive), including a thorough understanding of safety protocols, fundamentals, and welding in flat and horizontal positions.
• Master the operation of manual lathes, drill presses, milling machines, grinding tools, layout techniques, and bench work in the context of machine technology, completing projects like a meat tenderizer, a drill gauge, and a pair of dice.
• Progress through advanced metalworking classes, deepening knowledge and skills in sheet metal fabrication, welding, and machining, with the option to specialize. Explore new techniques such as tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding, flux core welding, plasma cutting, computer numerically controlled (CNC) machining, and other metal cutting and forming techniques.
• Apply learned skills in a real-world setting through the Manufacturing Technology work experience program, gaining practical experience in a business or industry and earning credits for successful completion.
• Engage in independent study through Leadership/Projects: Metals, utilizing previously acquired skills and acquiring new ones while manufacturing individual projects and preparing materials and equipment for instructor use.
• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of electrical circuits, including the basics of AC and DC electricity, soldering, circuit development, and an introduction to Ohm's law. Assemble electronic projects and develop practical skills in soldering and house wiring techniques.
• Acquire proficiency in technical drafting, utilizing drafting equipment and software such as AutoCAD and Revit. Develop skills in proper lettering techniques, line types, measurement, geometric construction, dimensioning, orthographic projection, and the creation of 3-D isometric drawings.
• Design and create a variety of drawings, including a building with furnishings, using AutoCAD and Revit software, exploring potential careers in Construction, Architecture, Engineering, Graphics, and Interior Design.
• Have the opportunity to earn College Now credits through LCC, enhancing academic and career prospects in the field of manufacturing technology.

Possibilities After Graduation

Classes in the pathway include: Metal Fabrication, Machine Technology, Welding Technology, Electrical Circuits, Advanced Metals, 1,2,3, & 4, Leadership Projects 1,2, 3, & 4 and Work Study. 

Career possibilities include: Welder, Fabricator, Machinist, Electrician, Iron Worker, Teacher, General Construction. 

Annual Salary Range: $21,000 - $100,000+