The Engineering Technology Career program has three tiers.
Foundation Courses introduce students to basic engineering concepts and processes. Courses include: Introduction to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, and Digital Electronics.
Specialization Courses teach biotech, civil, and computer engineering in more depth. Courses include: Civil Engineering and Architecture, Bio-technical Engineering, and Computer Integrated Manufacturing.
Engineering Design and Development allows students the opportunity to research an engineering principle in depth, write a paper, and then defend their findings before a panel of experts. This is the capstone course in the Engineering Technology program.
What can you do with your Engineering Technology career training?
Engineers apply scientific and mathematical processes to develop solutions to technical problems. Many engineers design things such as robots, airplanes, or better ways to create products. There are 17 recognized engineering specialties including biomedical, civil, chemical, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineers. Engineering technicians use the principles of science, engineering, and mathematics to solve technical problems in research and development, manufacturing, sales, construction, and inspection.
Training you need:
A 4-year bachelor's degree in engineering is required for almost all entry-level jobs. Engineers generally study an engineering specialty, along with courses in both mathematics and science. Engineering technicians generally complete a 2-year program.
Where you can work:
Thirty-seven percent work in manufacturing, 28% in science and technology industries, 12% are employed by the government, and 3% are self-employed. About 20% work in all other industries.
What you can earn:
Average starting salaries for engineers range from $47,960 - $60,718. The highest salaries were paid to chemical, petroleum, aerospace, computer, and nuclear engineers, averaging about $95,000. Engineering technicians average about $50,660.
Career outlook:
Engineering careers will grow at about 11%. Outstanding growth of 15%+ will be in biomedical, civil, environmental, and industrial engineering. As companies consolidate or cut costs, they may shift additional tasks to engineering technicians.
Certifications or Licenses You May Earn While in High School:
With additional training/education, what jobs are available?
Professional engineer, researcher, instructor, sales, technical representative, owner, or principal in an engineering company.
What you should know...
Quincy High School incorporates Project Lead the Way curriculum for delivering the Massachusetts frameworks in Engineering Technology. This structured, yet flexible, high school program offers students in-depth, hands-on knowledge of engineering and technology-based careers. This curriculum prepares students for demanding 2- and 4-year college engineering programs.
Recommended Course of Study
Grade 9
English
Foreign Language
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Pathways
Introduction to Engineering Design
Grade 10
English
Foreign Language
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
Principles of Engineering
Digital Electronics
Grade 11
English
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
2 Engineering specialization courses
1 Elective Course
Grade 12
English
Social Studies
Physical Education
Mathematics
Science
1 Engineering specialization course OR Engineering Design and Development
1 Elective Course