Pathfinder Tech
Cad (Pre-Engineering)
SKILLS ACQUIRED AT EACH GRADE LEVEL
Grade 9
- Exploratory Project: fidget spinner, yo-yo, or phone stand
- Basic 3D modeling
- Orthographic views
- Dimensioning standards
- Measuring (rulers and dial calipers)
- Boat design project
- Basic
- 3D Assemblies
- Catapult Project
- CSWA: Certified Solidworks Associate) certification preparation.
Grade 10
- Advanced CAD assemblies
- Advanced CAD drawings
- Intro to 3D printing
- Reverse engineering
- Intro to manufacturing processes
- AutoCAD 2D
- Car project
- CAD design project (student driven)
Grade 11
- Residential architecture
- Home construction
- Architecture project (house model)
- Sheet metal design
- Welding application
- Advanced mechanical assemblies
- Tabulated drawings/Part families
Grade 12
- Rocket design project
- Manufacturing processes (and casting, injection molding)
- Senior design project
- Technical writing
- Mechanical design projects
- GD&T (geometric tolerance)
CAD (Pre-Engineering)
The primary goal of this program is to prepare students for entry level employment in the drafting profession or post-secondary education in fields such as Mechanical Engineering Technology, Architectural Engineering Technology, or Engineering. Students who have completed the requirements of the program receive a completion certificate upon graduation and may be eligible for college credits at the community college level through articulation agreements.
Students enrolled in the program have access to a computer lab that utilizes Autocad, SolidWorks, Inventor, Onshape, as well as multiple 3D printers and robotics equipment. The CAD software is the student’s main tool in creating computer models through assigned tasks or independent design projects. Students can see their ideas and designs come to life by first designing them in the CAD software and then manufacturing their designs utilizing 3D printers or other methods.
The CAD curriculum meets the current standards of industry and is aligned with the current Massachusetts vocational frameworks. After completing the junior year, students are eligible to enter the co-op program in which students can get hands-on experience in the trade and also earn an income. Certification as an Associate in SolidWorks is also offered.
Proficiency in CAD design principles enable the student to enter a rewarding career with an excellent salary and strong growth potential. CAD is the foundation of all forms of engineering including mechanical, electrical, civil, architectural, landscape, and even video/software design. Almost every item around you such as cellphones, automobiles, homes, and even the space shuttle were created with the use of CAD designs.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDUSTRY RECOGNIZED CREDENTIALS
- CSWA – Certified Solidworks Associate
- CSWP- Certified Solidworks Professional
- OSHA 10 (General occupational safety)
THIS PROGRAM RELIES HEAVILY ON THE FOLLOWING ACADEMIC SKILLS and/or DISCIPLINES
- Basic Math
- Physics
- Geometry
NOTEWORTHY PROJECTS
- Catapult Design
- Car Design
- House Model
- Rocket Design
POSSIBLE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES UPON COMPLETION OF PROGRAM
Upon graduation:
- Drafter
- CAD Technician
- Estimator
- CAD Intern
- Model/mold Designer
After completion of 1-2 years of post-secondary technical training (apprenticeship, certificate program or associate’s degree):
- Architectural Drafter
- Mechanical Drafter
- Engineering Technician
- CAD Designer
- Civil CAD Technician
- Electrical Drafter
- CAD/CAM Technical Designe
After completion of Advanced degree (4 year college degree or higher)
- Mechanical Engineer
- Aerospace Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineer
- Architect
- Home Designer
- Interior Designer
- Landscape Architect
- Electrical Engineer