Architectural & Mechanical Design

Freshman Program

The Freshman Architectural and Mechanical Design program provides a solid foundation in the fundamentals of design and engineering. Key components of this program include:

Introduction to Design Principles:

• Technical Drawing: Learning the basics of technical drawing, including orthographic projection, isometric drawing, and sectioning.
• Sketching: Developing sketching skills to quickly visualize and communicate design ideas.
• Design Thinking: Applying design principles to solve problems and generate innovative solutions.

CAD Software:

• AutoCAD: Learning the fundamentals of AutoCAD, including basic commands, drawing tools, and layer management.
• 3D Modeling: Creating 3D models of objects and structures using Chief Architect software.

Model Making:

• Foam Core Modeling: Building physical models to visualize design concepts and understand spatial relationships.
• Model Building Techniques: Learning techniques for cutting, shaping, and assembling model components.

Career Exploration:

• Industry Research: Exploring career opportunities in architecture, engineering, and related fields.
• Industry Professionals: Interacting with industry professionals to gain insights into the field.

By the end of the freshman year, students will have a strong foundation in design principles, CAD software, and model-making techniques. They will be well-prepared to advance to more complex projects in the sophomore year.

Sophomore Program

The Sophomore Architectural and Mechanical Design Program focuses on introducing students to foundational design and construction principles through Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology using Chief Architect software. Throughout the year, students develop the skills necessary for understanding residential construction and producing professional-level design work. Key components of the program include:

• Introduction to BIM Technology and Chief Architect Software: Students learn to use Chief Architect, a professional design tool, to recreate an existing house, practicing core software skills.
• Residential Construction Basics: Understanding foundations, floor, wall, ceiling, and roof framing.
• Sizing basic structural members: Students learn the fundamental calculations determining the correct size for structural elements.
• Construction Drawing Creation: Students complete a full set of construction drawings for a small house, incorporating details learned from earlier in the program.
• Basic Kitchen and Bath Design: Adhering to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) standards for kitchen and bathroom design. Students practice NKBA-compliant drawing standards for scale and dimensioning.
• First House Design Project: Students engage in their first attempt at designing a small house from scratch, applying all the principles learned thus far.

The goal is for students to develop the necessary software skills and design knowledge to be well-prepared for their junior year, where they will take on more complex design challenges.

In addition, students receive training in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10-hour Construction Course.

Sophomore Related 2

Drafting Tech Math II

The Drafting Tech Math II curriculum provides students various aspects of drafting technology through practical and realistic mathematical problems they may encounter in everyday work situations. This course equips students with the technical skills required to succeed in the field of drafting technology.

Students will demonstrate Proficiency in:

• Reading Architectural & Mechanical Scales.
• Basic Geometry
• Basic Algebra
• Basic Statistics
• Basic Estimating

Junior Program

The Junior Architectural and Mechanical Design Program provides a comprehensive curriculum to equip students with a solid understanding of graphic language and technical design. Students will explore the fundamental principles of drafting, learning how to translate complex ideas into precise technical drawings using modern CAD techniques and software. The program introduces essential tools, such as AutoCAD and Chief Architect, which are crucial in the fields of architecture and design.

This curriculum emphasizes real-world applications and critical thinking, equipping students with the skills needed for higher education and careers in architecture, interior design, civil engineering, and structural engineering.

Key Components of the Program:

• Residential Design: Mastering the design and layout of residential spaces using Chief Architect software.
• Interior Design: Designing interiors, including room layouts, with an eye for both form and function.
• Floor Plan Design: Students will learn to create floor plans that meet both aesthetic and functional requirements.
• Principles of Construction: Gaining knowledge of construction methods and practices.
• Foundation Design: Understanding the design of foundations, ensuring stability and compliance with regulations.
• Wall, Floor, and Roof Framing Plans: Drawing framing systems for walls, floors, and roofs, with attention to structural detail.
• Elevation Drawings: Creating detailed elevation drawings for residential exteriors.
• Renovation and Remodeling: Learning techniques for updating and remodeling existing structures.
• Interior and Building Codes: Familiarizing with codes and standards for interior spaces and overall building safety.
• Small-Scale Model Making: Creating scaled models to visualize designs in a tangible form.
• Structural Math and Calculations: Applying mathematical principles to ensure structural integrity.
• Basic Electrical and Plumbing Design: Designing essential systems for residential buildings, including electrical and plumbing layouts.

Junior Related 2

 Basic Design Science III

The Junior Basic Design Science III curriculum provides the students with the basic knowledge and understanding of how to apply the principles of construction to a design, develop an understanding of basic structural design, and apply design theory and space planning to a building. The student will develop basic (manual) drafting and visualization skills, and solve spatial problems, develop interpersonal, written, and communicative skills that they would encounter in the everyday workforce.

Students will demonstrate Proficiency in:

• Knowledge of the principle of construction.
• Knowledge of Renovation and Remodeling.
• Drawing elevations
• Foundation design.
• Drawing wall framing systems as well as floor and roof framing plans.
• Knowledge of Interior/building codes
• Interior design, including space planning and color theory.

Senior Program

The Senior Architectural and Mechanical Design Program builds on the foundational knowledge acquired during the first two years, enabling students to take on more complex and comprehensive projects. This advanced curriculum emphasizes real-world applications and critical thinking, equipping students with the skills needed for higher education and careers in architecture, interior design, civil engineering, and structural engineering.

Key Components of the Program:

• Revit Software Training: Students gain proficiency in Revit, a leading software tool widely used for architectural design and building information modeling in college and professional settings.
• Commercial and Residential Design: The curriculum covers both commercial and residential design principles, equipping students with the skills to approach various project types effectively.
• Introduction to Civil and Structural Engineering: Students receive foundational knowledge in civil engineering and structural engineering, focusing on the principles that govern building design and construction.
• Advanced Floor Plan Design: Participants will learn to create intricate floor plans that meet both aesthetic and functional requirements.
• Large-Scale Model Making: Emulating collegiate standards, students will engage in large-scale model making, enhancing their understanding of spatial relationships and design elements.
• Structural Math and Calculations: The program includes essential mathematical concepts and structural calculations necessary for evaluating material strength and structural integrity.
• Building Codes and Regulations: Students will familiarize themselves with building codes and regulations to ensure compliance and safety in their designs.
• Strength of Materials: An exploration of material properties and behavior under various loads prepares students for real-world engineering challenges.

This program is tailored to ensure students are well-prepared for collegiate-level education and future careers in architecture, interior design, civil engineering, and structural engineering and is nationally certified by the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA).

Senior Related 2

Basic Engineering Design

The Senior Basic Engineering Design IV program provides students with a solid foundation in practical engineering skills and business knowledge. Key areas of focus include:

Financial Management:

• Budgeting: Creating and managing budgets for projects.
• Cost Estimating: Estimating material costs, labor costs, and overhead expenses.
• Financial Analysis: Analyzing financial data to make informed decisions.

Structural Analysis:

• Basic Structural Calculations: Performing simple structural calculations, such as load calculations and stress analysis.
• Material Selection: Choosing appropriate materials for specific applications.
• Structural Design: Designing simple structures, such as beams and columns.

Construction and Manufacturing:

• Shop Practices: Using various tools and equipment to fabricate components.
• Material Estimation: Estimating the quantity of materials needed for a project.
• Quality Control: Ensuring the quality of work through inspection and testing.
• Safety Practices: Adhering to safety regulations and using personal protective equipment.

Communication and Professional Skills:

• Technical Writing: Writing clear and concise technical reports and documentation.
• Presentation Skills: Effectively communicating design ideas and project updates.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively with others to achieve project goals.
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Applying problem-solving and critical thinking skills to engineering challenges.

By the end of this course, students will be well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue further education in engineering or related fields. They will have a strong foundation in technical skills, financial management, and professional communication.

Certifications

Mechanical Drafting

• Career Safe Certification, recognized by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
• Certified Solidworks Associate Exam 3D modeling
• The Autodesk® Certified User exam – 2D AutoCAD
• The ADDA Drafter Certification Examination-Certified Mechanical Drafter

Career Opportunities

Mechanical Drafting

• Detail Draftsperson
• Engineering Assistant
• CAD Detailer
• Mechanical Drafter
• Mechanical Designer
• Civil Drafter
• Electrical Drafter

Post-Secondary Education

Mechanical Drafting

Upon completion of this Technical Program, students will be better prepared for postsecondary education (college) in the following courses of study:

Two or four year options in:

• Manufacturing Technology
• Electro-mechanical Technology
• Industrial Engineering Technology
• Mechanical Engineering Technology
• Industrial Design