Through individual and collaborative team projects students will learn to use the engineering design process to solve unique problems and improve existing products. Students will learn skills such as problem analysis, idea generation, decision making, 3-D and physical model creation, peer review, group presentation and proper notebook documentation. Students will use various modeling programs and have access to 3-D printing, CNC cutting, VEX Robotics, wood and metal working machinery, and an 80watt laser.

Through rigorous problems that engage and challenge, students further reinforce the engineering design process, applying Math, Physics and Engineering standards to hands-on group projects. Students develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation. Strong study skills are recommended for this course.

This course propels students’ learning into the fundamentals of atmospheric and space flight. As they explore the physics of flight, students bring the concepts to life by designing airfoils, gliders, composite materials, rockets, propeller systems, and remote control VEX satellites and rovers. They also learn the basics of flight control, navigation, air-frame design, and orbital mechanics using industry standard software.

Students explore the foundations of computing by engaging in the circuit design process to create combinational logic and sequential logic (memory) as electrical engineers do in industry. Through theory and practice students will work individually and in teams to design (on paper), model (software simulations), and build (physically) digital solid-state devices that complete the assigned tasks. Attention to detail is highly stressed in this class.

Using Python® as a primary tool, students explore and become inspired by career paths that utilize computing, discover tools that foster creativity and collaboration, and use what they’ve learned to tackle challenges like app development and simulation. This course is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam for college credit.

Students cultivate their understanding of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code as they explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures. This course is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam for college credit.

*Cerritos College credit requires a B average, **Honors class includes a GPA boost, ***AP Advanced Placement prepares students for the AP Exam