This is a two-year, revolving program intended for students who are preparing for college studies in engineering or architecture, planning to enter industry training programs in engineering/architecture, or seeking work in computer-aided drafting and modeling or as an engineering technician. The program is affiliated with Project Lead the Way, a nationally-recognized and academically-rigorous high school engineering curriculum. Students planning to apply to college engineering or architecture programs should continue to take the normal sequence of high school math and science courses in addition to the PAHCC program in order to meet the prerequisites for the college programs.  
 

Principles of Engineering (offered 2024-2025)

This course provides a broad survey of the engineering sciences typically encountered in the first two years of college engineering programs including mechanical systems, statics, kinematics, strength of materials, energy and power, electrical circuits, thermodynamics, hydraulics, robotics, and programming/controls systems. Also covered are technical drawing/drafting/3D computer modeling and methods of production in the manufacturing industry. In each subject area, students progress through hands-on activities that build conceptual understanding, use calculations to assess and predict behavior, and then apply these skills to a design project. Emphasis is on using the Engineering Design Process as a formal method to creatively solve open-ended and complex design problems. There is strong emphasis on building the soft skills essential to engineering practice, such as professional communication, creative problem-solving, teamwork, time management, and project management. Opportunities for technical competitions, job shadows and/or cooperative work experiences may be available for eligible students. Most math used is at Algebra I level (with some trigonometry that will be taught). 

Prerequisites: Proficient in solving Algebra 1 equations for a single unknown, calculating area, and calculating volume. Able to work in a team-based environment. Able to work independently for at least 20 minutes.      

Credits: 3 credits (1 math, 2 electives). Students who successfully complete the Project Lead the Way end-of-course examination for Principles of Engineering can earn 3 transferable college credits.

Engineering & Architecture (offered 2025-2026) 

This course teaches professional skills in engineering and architecture needed for careers in the design of buildings, infrastructure, and landscapes. The course is suitable for both students with an engineering focus and those primarily interested in architecture (college studies for architecture include engineering coursework). The course starts with drawing skills:  free-hand sketching, hand-drafting, computer drafting (AutoCAD), and building information modeling (REVIT). Technical content includes architectural history, architectural design, building technology, the construction process, and the branches of engineering that support building design: civil engineering/land development, structural, mechanical, and electrical. Design projects progress from a simple shed to a single-family residence to more complex commercial projects; specific design projects vary by year but at least some will include hands-on design/build experience and working with real clients. Soft skills essential to professional design practice are emphasized throughout, including communication, creative problem-solving, teamwork, time management, and project management. Opportunities for technical competitions, job shadows and/or cooperative work experiences may be available for eligible students.  Most math used is at Algebra I level (with some trigonometry that will be taught). 

Prerequisites: Proficient in solving Algebra 1 equations for a single unknown, calculating area, and calculating volume. Able to work in a team-based environment. Able to work independently for at least 20 minutes.      

Credits: 3 credits (1 math, 2 electives).  Students who successfully complete the Project Lead the Way end-of-course examination in “Civil Engineering & Architecture” can earn 3 transferable college credits.