BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ENGINEERS
Have you ever known someone who constantly figits, tinkers with and builds things? You might know an engineer! And if you drive a car, use the internet, or even flip a switch to turn on a light, you should probably thank them as well. Engineers impact almost every part of our physical world, and engineering continues to be a great career choice. Schools across the country are promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Math or STEM curriculum more than ever.
Tulsa Tech’s approach not only promotes but encourages career exploration through our Foundations of Engineering programs. These one-hour electives embedded within area high schools are all about exploration for students.
“We focus a lot on hands-on projects. I want to get the students doing things,” said Ashley Farley, Foundations of Engineering Instructor at Union Freshman Academy. “I’m getting to help students figure out if they like the field and what parts they like.”
Within the engineering topic are many sub-disciplines—everything from electrical to structural and even computers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says the field will grow by almost six percent over the next decade.
Narrowing that scope is a yearly goal for Andrea Shaw, Foundations of Engineering Instructor at Bixby High School.
“Many kids come in with one idea and realize that is not for them,” Shaw said. “Early exposure can excite them and help them find their path.”
Tulsa Tech offers this program at 11 different partner high schools across the District. For many students, these programs are their gateway to Tulsa Tech.
“We're opening their eyes, but we get to help guide them to the right career,” Farley said.
After completing these electives, students can apply to a host of full-time programs on a Tulsa Tech campus. This includes Advanced Pre-engineering for students who want to go on to college and follow an engineering pathway. Also, many of our manufacturing-based career training programs further explore the world of making.
“Another thing is the networking we offer through our student organizations,” Shaw added. “They can participate in the Technology Student Association (TSA) and compete at local, state, and national levels.”
Beyond the required math is also the excitement of creating things. Projects can range from simple tokens to full-scale projects and competing against other designers.
“For the past two years, my class and a couple of others have partnered with the Discovery Lab,” Shaw said. “We do their design challenge, so it is almost like a real-world client.”
Each year, the Discovery Lab leaders go to schools to have students pitch concepts for new exhibits. After the teams of students have presented all of their ideas, and sometimes prototypes, the Museum picks a winning design. This program has been the brainchild for some exhibits at the Discovery Lab.
There’s a world of possibilities out there, consider applying for a High School Extension Program, and discover the world of engineering. These elective classes are a great way for high school students to explore a career field before spending thousands of dollars in higher education. Tulsa Tech helps you Make Your Own Path to a great career, get started by visiting tulsatech.edu.