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Engineering
Learn about the Engineering career cluster.
Engineer the future
The Engineering career cluster focuses on planning, designing, testing, building, and maintaining of machines, structures, materials, systems, and processes using empirical evidence and science, technology, and math principles. This career cluster includes occupations ranging from mechanical engineer and drafter to electrical engineer and to mapping technician.
Need a hard copy? See the 24-25 Engineering Career Cluster Packet (PDF).
Programs of study
Expand AllElectrical Engineering
The Electrical Engineering program of study focuses on occupational and educational opportunities associated with the design, development, testing, and supervision of electrical equipment and systems. Students will design, test, and evaluate projects related to electrical motors, radar, navigation systems, and communication systems. This program of study includes applying scientific, mathematical, and empirical evidence to solve problems in electrical systems associated with instruments, facilities, components, and equipment.
Course pathways
| Level | Campus pathway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Principles of Applied Engineering |
| 2 | AC/DC Electronics* |
| 3 | Digital Electronics |
| 4 | Engineering Design and Problem Solving |
*AC/DC Electronics and Digital Electronic courses offered only at South Garland HS.
Example Aligned Occupations
| Occupations | Median wage | Annual openings | 10 Year Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians | $62,968 | 1,156 | 14% |
| Electrical and Electronics Drafters | $58,987 | 406 | 16% |
| Electrical Engineers | $102,534 | 1,271 | 21% |
Aligned Industry-Based Certifications
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA) – Electrical
- NCCER Electrical Level I
- NCCER Electrical Level II
Example Postsecondary options
| Education level | Options |
|---|---|
| Associate's Degree |
|
| Bachelor's Degree |
|
| Master's/Doctoral Degree/Professional Degree |
|
Work-based learning and expanded learning opportunities
One of the best ways to acquire experience in your chosen career is by engaging in exploration activities, work-based learning, or by joining a Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) such as participation in SkillsUSA
Exploration activities
- Tour a telecommunications site
- Participate in SkillsUSA or TSA
- Join a local engineering association and attend meetings
Work-based learning activities
- Intern for a construction company and use computer-aided design (CAD) to draw electrical blueprints
- Shadow an electrical engineering professional
Engineering Foundations
The Engineering Foundations program of study focuses on occupational and educational opportunities associated with a wide range of skills applied in the Engineering industry. Students will design, test, and evaluate projects related to engines, machines, and structures. This program of study includes applying scientific, mathematical, and empirical evidence to solve problems through innovation, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of different engineering systems.
Course pathways
| Level | Campus pathway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Principles of Applied Engineering Introduction to Engineering Design (PLTW) Engineering Essentials (PLTW) |
| 2 | Robotics I |
| 3 | Engineering Design and Presentation I Robotics II Engineering Science Aerospace Engineering (PLTW)* Computer Integrated Manufacturing (PLTW)* Engineering Design and Development (PLTW)* |
| 4 | Engineering Design and Presentation II Engineering Design and Problem Solving Practicum in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Scientific Research and Design |
*PLTW courses offered at North Garland HS
Example Aligned Occupations
| Occupations | Median wage | Annual openings | 10 Year Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians | $61,138 | 765 | 11% |
| Aerospace Engineers | $115,694 | 483 | 18% |
| Mechanical Engineers | $99,937 | 1,755 | 19% |
Aligned Industry-Based Certifications
- Autodesk Associate (Certified User) Fusion 360
- Autodesk Associate (Certified User) Inventor for Mechanical Design
- Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA) – Mechanical Design
Example Postsecondary options
| Education level | Options |
|---|---|
| Associate's Degree |
|
| Bachelor's Degree |
|
| Master's/Doctoral Degree/Professional Degree |
|
Work-based learning and expanded learning opportunities
One of the best ways to acquire experience in your chosen career is by engaging in exploration activities, work-based learning, or by joining a Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) such as participation in SkillsUSA
Exploration activities
- Participate in SkillsUSA or TSA
- Join a local engineering association and attend meetings.
Work-based learning activities
- Intern at an engineering, robotics, or aerospace company.
- Visit an engineering firm and shadow multiple types of engineers.