Introduction to Engineering Design

CST51A & CST51B

Shelly Tornquist "Monty"

"Students must be inspired before they are exposed to low expectations. PLTW does not train engineers. We train critical thinkers and problem solvers. We know our students will go into any number of career paths, and we believe our students will be in a much better position to contribute to our country in meaningful ways."

Dr. Vince Bertram, President and CEO, Project Lead The Way.

This course teaches you the engineering design process through activities, problems, and projects. Topics include engineering notebooks, design processes, prototyping, technical sketching, measurement and statistics, 3D computer solid modeling, and reverse engineering. 

Prerequisite:    Concurrent enrollment or successful completion of Algebra 1

Digital Electronics

CST53A & CST53

Jyusef Larry

Digital Electronics is the study of electronic circuits used to process and control digital signals. The major focus of the course is the design process applied to the use of combinational and sequential logic design, teamwork, communication methods, engineering standards, and technical documentation. You will analyze, design and build fundamental digital electronic circuits. 

Prerequisite:    Successful completion of both Introduction to Engineering Design and Algebra 1 

  Grades 10-12

Principles of Engineering

CST52A & CST52B

Zoe Papasideris

Principles of Engineering introduces you to major concepts studied in a higher education engineering program. Topics include mechanisms, energy, statics, materials, kinematics, and computer control systems. You will develop problem-solving skills and apply your knowledge of math, science, and design to create solutions to various challenges, document your work, and communicate solutions. 

Prerequisites:  Successful completion of both Introduction to Engineering Design and Algebra 1 

  Grades 11-12

Computer Integrated Manufacturing

CST57A & CST57B

Shelly Tornquist "Monty"

Computer Integrated Manufacturing provides students with an understanding of modern manufacturing methods. Topics include robotics and automation, manufacturing processes, computer modeling, rapid prototyping, CNC programming, manufacturing equipment, and flexible manufacturing systems.

Prerequisite:    Successful completion of both Introduction to Engineering Design and Algebra 1 

  Grades 11-12

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:        Do I have to start with Introduction to Engineering Design?

A:        Yes, all courses now have the pre-requisite of Introduction to Engineering Design.

Q:        What do I take after Introduction to Engineering Design? There are three choices!?

A:        You can take 1 or more of the other three courses available, meaning you can take two at the same time.

Q:        Do I have to take all of the courses?

A:        No, you can take as many as you have time for! If you complete 3 you will earn the tech apps credit, and if you complete 4 you will earn a patch for a letter jacket!

 Q:        I heard the classes count for college credit; do I have to enroll in a college to get that first?

A:        Yes, they all can be used for college credit, but you do not enroll first. You can apply for the credit at the end of the year after you successfully take the end-of-course assessment and have finalized your engineering notebook and portfolio. In fact a few colleges will want to give credit with just your engineering notebook and portfolio!

Q:        Are the courses weighted / AP or honors credit?

A:        No, we are electives. Students take our classes because they enjoy math and science and want a jump on their college career.

Q:        Why do I have to take the Introduction to Engineering Design course first? It sounds easy.

A:        Do not let the word “introduction” fool you into thinking this! Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) is a college level course, and like all courses we are project based. This means you can expect to be working every day during class time and therefore little or no homework. IED will teach you to think like an engineer and is our basic foundation course.

Q:        I need more information!

A:        Contact                                              Shelly Tornquist  "Monty"

Autodesk Certified Instructor

Spring Branch ISD Master Teacher

PLTW Master Teacher

Shelly.tornquist@springbranchisd.com

Or stop by ANY TIME, E101 – behind the cafeteria