In this foundation course, students will learn the basic language of technical design, as they design, sketch, and make technical drawings, illustrations, models, or prototypes of real design problems. Math and science enabling objectives and measured performance objectives are a vital part of this course. Students develop spatial ability as they apply mathematical concepts to visual presentations.

Students will use graphic language for product design, technical illustration, assembly, patent, and aeronautical drawings. Students will increase their understanding of drawing techniques learned in the prerequisite course. Students use computers, calculators, and descriptive geometry and adhere to established standards to solve design problems. Completion of this will contribute to a student’s preparation for the AutoCAD 2004 certification examination. Students who have not earned the AutoCAD 2004 Certification will be administered the assessment. This assessment validates the student’s knowledge and skills in using the design/drafting AutoCAD 2004 software program. Students who earn this industry credential will have a ―value-added‖ component when competing in today’s job market, as well as the option of using the credential as a high school student-selected verified credit.

The curriculum outlines tasks and competencies over two instructional years: Modeling & Simulation Support Specialist I & II. Year one of the proposed Modeling & Simulation Support Specialist course will include the following competencies/tasks: Computer skills/EXCEL applications, digital visualization techniques and applications, data collection, presentation and analysis, career studies, communication skills, basic programming, problem-solving and design solutions. Competencies/tasks for the proposed year two curriculum will include: operating system instruction, networking and trouble-shooting with hardware/software applications. In addition, a semester-long project-based learning opportunity contextual to the student’s career goals will be required. The contextual project will pair students with mentors in workplaces related to their respective career goals. Thus, this program will enable students to identify a concern and address a problem/issue related to their career goal. Upon completion of the program of studies for the Engineering and Technology pathway, students will have the option of pursuing a Certificate of Career Studies or an Associates of Science degree in Modeling & Simulation Technology at Tidewater Community College. This degree/certificate options prepare students to enter the work force, and/or to transition to a baccalaureate program at Old Dominion University.

Students will be introduced to computerized modeling, simulation, and animation desired by engineering and business communities. This course introduces principals and practices of software development which includes instruction in critical thinking, problem solving, and essential programming logic in structured and object-oriented design using contemporary tools. Additionally this course introduces students to the concepts and terminology of the modeling and simulation field. The course familiarizes the student with the types of software used the development and the analysis of projects results. Students will also discuss gaming concepts and develop two-dimensional games using a variety of tools. Upon successful completion of this course, a student may earn college credit at Tidewater Community College in the Associate of Applied Science Degree program in Technical Studies with a Specialization in Modeling and Simulation.

Students will gain both knowledge and hands-on skills needed to secure a job as a construction equipment operator in this one-year program. Students will learn about site grading and development, excavation, pipe laying, road building, surveying, reading blueprints, construction safety, and more. They will have the opportunity to gain experience in operating excavators, bulldozers, loaders, and backhoes. This program is certified by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). Students must be at least sixteen years of age. Student-Selected Verified Credit (Industry Credentialing) Completion of this course enables student completers to earn the National Center for Construction Education and Research industry certification. This credential is beneficial (and sometimes essential) to students seeking employment in a career field or occupational specialty. In addition, students who obtain this credential earn verified credits toward graduation. Industry credentialing is available pending the availability of funds.

Students will learn about welding and metals in this two-year program. They learn to read blueprints, set up equipment, and to weld in various positions, including flat, vertical, horizontal, and overhead. Student-Selected Verified Credit (Industry Credentialing) Completion of this course enables student completers to earn the Schools Excelling through National Skills Standards Education industry certification. This credential is beneficial (and sometimes essential) to students seeking employment in a career field or occupational specialty. In addition, students who obtain this credential earn verified credits toward graduation. Industry credentialing is available pending the availability of funds.