Engineering Technology Academy

Technology Survey (Intro to Engineering) is an introductory engineering course that exposes a student to several areas taught by the Engineering and Technology Education Department, as well as studying and implementing basic engineering theory and skills.  Students will use the school’s engineering, manufacturing and fabrication labs to explore the Six areas of technology Manufacturing, Energy/Power, Communication, Transportation, Construction and Bio Related.  Students will work extensively in Prototyping, 3D Printing, Metal Forming and Design theory, as well as analyzing and troubling shooting their design solutions.  The students will work individually and in teams on area specific engineering challenges.  Throughout this course, a student will be exposed to the theories and principles of each area, general shop safety and tool handling; plus basic blueprint reading, drafting, measuring, layout, technical math, physics and problem solving skills. 

Mechanical Design/CADD I (Engineering I) is an pre-engineering course that exposes a student to the amazing and useful world of mechanical and computer aided design and drafting.  Students will use the Smithfield High School engineering lab to study the theories and proper procedures of both areas.  Students will gain basic knowledge and skills in SOLIDWORKS 2016 solid modeling software, printing, geometric constructions, freehand sketching of ideas, orthographic projection, proper dimensioning practices, pictorial drawing, sectional drawings and auxiliary drawings.  In the engineering labs students will be trained on cutting edge manufacturing and design tools such as 3-D printers, a CNC* plasma table and lasers. In the final quarter of the year, the student will work on a class generated design project.  Through this project the student will utilize the knowledge gained in mechanical design while applying computer, design, critical thinking and problem solving skills, as well as metal fabrication and welding skills to a practical work environment. Physics, mathematics and writing skills are also utilized.  

*A machine tool that uses software programs to automatically execute a series of machining operations.

Construction is an introduction to skills, knowledge, environments, and people of the construction industry.  A laboratory component is required for students to plan, design, and build a structure.  This year long course introduces students to residential construction of the past, present, and the future.  Students will learn how structures evolved and continue to evolve with societal needs and technological advancements.  Students receive theory and practical instruction as they work individually as well as in groups to accomplish assigned tasks.  Students will be using NCCER (National Center for Construction Education Research) Core Curriculum and Safety Orientation, which is part of a nationally recognized apprentice program.  Practical experiences are provided through working closely with the Rhode Island Builders Association and working both inside and outside of the classroom to gain as much practical work experience as possible.  Students are required to complete the OSHA 10 Hour Construction Safety training.  If a student does not pass the OSHA exam with a 90% or better and receive the OSHA 10 card, they will not be allowed to work in the shops in the second semester.  

Architectural Design/CADD II (Engineering II) is a continuation of Mechanical Drafting/CADD I (Engineering I).  Students will use the Smithfield High School engineering labs to study architecture and architects through the ages, both native and foreign, will be explored. The design and engineering of all types of residential and some commercial buildings will also be studied. Students will gain advanced knowledge and skills in GOOGLE SKETCHUP drafting software as well as traditional board drawing. Students will learn what it takes to prepare a complete set of blueprints for a house of their own design. A digital and physical model, as well as a full presentation of their design is required as part of the coursework. Through this project the student will utilize the knowledge gained in architectural design while applying computer and problem solving skills to a practical work environment.