The Mechanical Design component of the program recognizes that today’s design tools differ from those of the past and offers students a program utilizing the latest 3-dimensional parametric modelers including “Solidworks.” Daily lectures teach the foundation of design principles. Then, students apply their knowledge to a curriculum-designed project that integrates real world applications. By the program’s completion, students are able to design a mechanical project, piece by piece, by creating 3D models of each component. The students will then assemble the parts and produce a “working drawing” of the model. The 3D model can then be sent to the 3D printing machine in our onsite manufacturing lab to be built as a prototype. This systematic approach walks the students through the entire experience of design from concept to prototype and introduces the different roles that are integral to product design. The Architectural Drafting component of the program prepares technical drawings for residential and commercial projects. Their drawings and models provide visual guidelines, details and specific dimensions for the construction industry. A major part of the curriculum uses the latest parametric 3D design software to produce drawing plans, elevation, sections, and details. The curriculum also includes architectural styles and history, structural theories, code research, sketching, presentation drawings, and model building.
Upon graduation, students are employable as:
- Architectural Drafter
- Mechanical Drafter
- CADD (Computer-Aided Design) Drafter
- Civil Drafting Technician
- Commercial Drafter
- Electronics/Electrical Drafter
- 3D Printing Technician
- Digital Manufacturing Technician
Technical and Higher Education Majors
- Architecture and Related Services
- Engineering Technology
- Drafting and Design Technology
- Civil Drafting
- Civil Engineering
- Interior Design
- 3D Printing
The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) has established a certification program for drafters. Individuals who wish to become certified must pass the Drafter Certification Test, administered periodically at ADDA-authorized sites. Applicants are tested on basic drafting concepts such as geometric construction, working drawings, and architectural terms and standards. Entry-level or junior drafters usually do routine work under close supervision. After gaining experience, they may become intermediate drafters and progress to more difficult work with less supervision. Drafters may eventually advance to senior drafter, designer, or supervisor. With appropriate college degrees, drafters may go on to become engineering technicians, engineers, or architects. Architects must graduate with a degree accredited by the National Architectural Accreditation Board (NAAB), complete the Intern Development Program (IDP), and pass exams given by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).
Connections to Work and Higher Education
Industry Affiliations: SKILLS USA
Industry Certifications Available in High School
- OSHA 10 Hour General Industry
College Credits toward post-secondary certifications/degrees can be earned through Articulation Agreements:
- MA State Agreement w/MAVA: Intro to Drafting and Intro to CAD 3 cr.
Grade 9 Exploratory – Course #DDX
The CAD design exploratory program introduces the students to today’s cutting edge design process. Students begin their week long experience with a design challenge. Students design their own invention in a 3D mode which will be animated and tested for correct fit. When the animation is correct, students make working drawings with proper views and dimensions.
Grade 9 Shop – Course #DDXF-16
Students learn about drafting shop tools that are used in the professional drafting and design “shop” environment. Emphasis is on basic drafting practices and principles. Daily lessons incorporate examples of using parametric CAD programs that 21st century professionals use to design the homes and products that we use today. The students experience the theories of drafting methods through both individual and group assignments.
Grade 10 Shop – Course #DD2
This course meshes the time-tested fundamentals of mechanical design with today’s most advanced design tools. Lesson topics include Introduction to Design, Sketching and Freehand Technical Design, Basic Geometric Construction, Solid Part Modeling, Assembly Modeling, Orthographic Projection/ Creating Working Drawings, Measurement, Sectional Views, Auxiliary Views, Electronic Drafting and Introduction to Rapid Prototyping. All topics are covered in an easy to understand sequence and delivered in a way that builds knowledge and confidence.
Grade 10 Related – Course #DD2R
The purpose of this course is to present the theories behind the common practices used in the mechanical design field. This course explains the “why” behind the “how to” that are learned in shop. Lessons are carefully planned to align with shop lessons and reinforce concepts necessary to master the skills. Daily lectures are offered in a discussion format.
Grade 11 Shop – Course #DD3
The purpose of this course is to focus the Drafting and Design student on a variety of architectural projects. The students use Chief Architect software program to develop plans, elevations, sections and details on a variety of residential and commercial projects. Students are introduced to architectural theory, layout sketching, building materials, structural requirements, architectural components and building code regulations. Students will be introduced to the following topics: one and two story house design, stair layout, roof design, site design, kitchen and bath design, accessibility regulations and code analysis, commercial design projects. The students are required to develop and maintain a presentation portfolio with all weekly projects including sketches, notes, CAD drawings and models.
Grade 11 Related – Course #DD3R
The purpose of this course is to focus the Drafting and Design student on a variety of architectural concepts, theories and terminologies. The students are introduced to architectural theory, layout sketching, building materials, structural requirements, architectural components and building code regulations. Curriculum also includes one and two story house design, stair layout, roof design, site design, kitchen and bath design, accessibility regulations and code analysis, commercial design projects, plot plans, civil drafting concepts, surveying and mapping. Students are required to develop and maintain a journal complete with weekly assignments, handouts, sketches and notes.
Grade 12 Shop – Course #DD4
During their senior year, drafting students work on a variety of school approved community projects, larger commercial projects and larger residential projects. Seniors work on developing and practicing competencies that were learned during their junior year. The students are required to complete and present their Junior/Senior project having earlier chosen
Grade 12 Related – Course #DD4R
The Grade 12 related course curriculum engages students in areas of the state competencies that they have not yet experienced while reinforcing previously learned fundamentals. Emphasis is also placed on skills essential for successful completion of the Senior Project.