Manufacturing/Industrial Technology

Industrial Technology Exploration is a hands-on course that invites students to explore the principles of design while unleashing creativity and innovation. Students will engage in the design process, problem-solving, and hands-on skills for manufacturing and construction careers through a project-based approach.  Students learn to safely operate various hand and power tools, measure, and read blueprints.

Throughout the course, students will gain experience with creative problem-solving and iterative design practices. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, collaboration, and applying design principles to real-world challenges. By mastering each step of the design journey, students develop practical skills and a strong foundation for advanced study in design, engineering, or industrial fields.

Engineering Exploration is a hands-on course designed for junior high students to explore the fundamentals of engineering, design, and problem-solving. Students will learn how engineers think and work by engaging in real-world challenges that encourage creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.

Through project-based learning, students will explore the engineering design process, including identifying problems, brainstorming solutions, creating prototypes, testing designs, and refining ideas. Activities may incorporate elements of STEM such as mathematics, science, technology, and computer-aided design. Emphasis is placed on teamwork, innovation, and applying engineering concepts to everyday situations.

This course provides a strong foundation for students interested in engineering, technology, or other STEM-related pathways in high school.

Manufacturing Exploration is a hands-on exploratory course designed to introduce junior high students to the fundamentals of manufacturing and production. Students will learn about manufacturing processes, workplace safety, and the role manufacturing plays in everyday life and modern industry.

Through project-based learning, students will work with a variety of materials and tools while exploring basic fabrication techniques. Activities may include simple design challenges, prototyping, and an introduction to modern manufacturing technologies such as computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), CNC machines, and 3D printing. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity.

This course provides foundational exposure to manufacturing concepts and helps students explore pathways in engineering, skilled trades, and advanced manufacturing at the high school level.

Introduction to Construction is a hands-on course designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of the construction industry. Emphasis is placed on safety, proper tool use, and basic construction practices.

Students will explore a variety of construction skills, including measuring, layout, framing basics, and material identification. Through project-based learning, students will work with common construction materials such as wood, fasteners, and basic building components. Instruction may also include an introduction to construction drawings, basic estimating, and problem-solving skills used in the field.

This course provides a foundational understanding of construction trades and prepares students for advanced coursework in construction, skilled trades, and related career pathways in high school.

Introduction to Manufacturing is a hands-on course that emphasizes safety and best practices when working with traditional woodworking power tools. Students develop foundational manufacturing skills through guided instruction and practical application.

Throughout the course, students will work with a variety of materials, including wood, plastics, metals, and glass, to design and build multiple projects. Instruction includes the use of design and drafting skills through computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). Students will apply these skills using modern manufacturing technologies such as CNC machines and 3D printers.

Emphasis is placed on safety, problem-solving, precision, and the manufacturing process from design to production. This course provides a strong foundation for students interested in engineering, skilled trades, or advanced manufacturing pathways in high school.

Introduction to Engineering is a hands-on, second-level course designed for students who have completed an exploratory engineering or manufacturing course. This course deepens students’ understanding of engineering concepts, design thinking, and problem-solving.

Students will engage in the engineering design process to identify problems, develop solutions, create prototypes, test designs, and refine their work. Instruction incorporates elements of science, mathematics, technology, and computer-aided design (CAD) while emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and critical thinking. Projects may include engineering challenges related to structures, mechanisms, or systems.

This course provides a strong foundation for advanced engineering, manufacturing, and STEM pathways at the high school level.

Students will design and produce parts composed of plastics, wood, and metal to construct prototypes and customized mock-ups as Manufacturing Technology II is an advanced, hands-on course designed to build upon skills developed in introductory manufacturing and engineering courses. Students will design and produce parts using plastics, wood, and metal to construct prototypes and customized mock-ups as part of the manufacturing and engineering design process.

Students will engage in iterative production by testing products, evaluating performance, and applying feedback to improve subsequent versions. Emphasis is placed on precision, problem-solving, quality control, and the use of manufacturing techniques and tools.

During the second semester, students will design and manufacture projects of their own choosing, allowing for deeper exploration of materials, processes, and production methods. Students are responsible for providing materials needed to complete course projects, with costs varying based on individual project selections.

This course prepares students for advanced manufacturing, engineering, and skilled trades pathways at the high school level.

Construction Technology II builds upon the foundational skills introduced in Introduction to Construction. This hands-on course provides students with expanded experience in construction materials, tools, and processes, with an emphasis on wood products and structural components.

Students will learn the safe and proper use of hand tools and power equipment while constructing required projects. Instruction focuses on measurement, layout, craftsmanship, and problem-solving skills commonly used in construction trades. Students will apply construction techniques while reinforcing workplace safety and responsible tool use.

Students and parents are responsible for providing materials needed to complete assigned projects. The minimum cost for the entire school year is $60.00, with additional costs depending on project selections.

Engineering is a hands-on, project-based course that introduces students to the principles of engineering, design thinking, and problem-solving. Students learn how engineers identify problems, develop solutions, and apply science, mathematics, and technology to create and improve products and systems.

Through real-world design challenges, students will engage in the engineering design process, including brainstorming, modeling, prototyping, testing, and refining solutions. Instruction may include the use of computer-aided design (CAD), basic manufacturing techniques, and collaborative teamwork. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, creativity, innovation, and communication.

This course provides a strong foundation for advanced engineering, manufacturing, and STEM pathways and prepares students for further study or careers in engineering and technology-related fields.

Manufacturing Entrepreneurship provides students with advanced experience in the materials, tools, and processes used in wood products manufacturing. Building upon foundational woodworking skills, students will learn and apply advanced joinery techniques while emphasizing precision, craftsmanship, and safety.

Students will also participate in tool maintenance and shop organization, gaining an understanding of industry-standard practices. In collaboration with the instructor, students may design and build projects intended for sale to the general public, offering real-world experience in production, quality control, and professionalism.

Students are responsible for providing materials needed to complete course projects. The cost of materials will vary depending on individual project choices.

Introduction to Industrial Electricity I is designed to provide beginning students with a broad introduction to industrial electrical systems through both foundational instruction and hands-on practice. This course emphasizes safety, proper tool use, and fundamental electrical concepts.

Topics covered include basic electrical circuits, electrical measurements, electrical relay control logic, and residential and industrial wiring. Students will apply theoretical knowledge through practical lab activities that reinforce troubleshooting, installation, and wiring techniques.

This course provides a strong foundation for students pursuing careers in industrial maintenance, electrical trades, manufacturing, or advanced technical training.

OSHA 10 Safety Training is designed to provide students with the foundational safety knowledge required to earn an OSHA 10-hour General Industry or Construction Safety card, issued by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Students will complete required coursework through an approved online training platform, covering essential workplace safety topics such as hazard recognition, accident prevention, personal protective equipment (PPE), and workers’ rights and responsibilities. Emphasis is placed on developing a safety-first mindset applicable across a wide range of career fields.

Upon successful completion of the course requirements, students will earn the OSHA 10 certification, a valuable credential recognized by employers in construction, manufacturing, and other industry sectors.

NCCER Core Curriculum is an introductory course built around the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Core curriculum and serves as a prerequisite for NCCER registration. This course provides beginning students with a broad foundation of knowledge and hands-on experience in construction technology.

Topics include workplace safety, basic construction math, hand and power tools, blueprint reading, rigging, basic communication skills, and essential employability skills. Emphasis is placed on industry standards, safety practices, and skill development needed for success in construction and skilled trades pathways.

Successful completion of this course prepares students for advanced NCCER training and entry into construction-related career pathways.

Construction Safety provides students with an introduction to safety practices and standards used on commercial and residential construction job sites. The course focuses on identifying workplace hazards and understanding safety regulations in accordance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines.

Students will learn basic safety standards, hazard recognition, accident prevention, and emergency preparedness and response procedures commonly required on construction job sites. Emphasis is placed on developing a safety-first mindset and understanding individual responsibility in maintaining a safe work environment.

As part of this course, students are required to complete OSHA 10 certification, providing them with an industry-recognized safety credential applicable to construction and related trades.

Carpentry II: Framing and Finishing is based on the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Level 2 Carpentry Fundamentals curriculum. This course is designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in advanced construction techniques.

Topics include roofing applications; thermal and moisture protection; exterior finishing and siding; cold-formed steel framing; drywall installation and finishing; doors and door hardware; suspended ceiling systems; trim installation for windows, doors, floors, and ceilings; and cabinet fabrication and installation. Emphasis is placed on industry standards, safety practices, precision, and craftsmanship.

This course prepares students for advanced construction pathways and continued NCCER credentialing in carpentry and related trades.

Carpentry Fundamentals is based on the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Level 1 Carpentry Fundamentals curriculum. This course is designed to provide students with a broad foundation of knowledge and hands-on experience in basic construction skills and practices.

Topics include trade orientation; building materials; fasteners and adhesives; hand and power tools; reading construction plans and elevations; introduction to concrete and reinforcing materials; floor systems; windows; and exterior doors. Emphasis is placed on safety, proper tool use, measurement, and industry-standard construction techniques.

Successful completion of this course prepares students for advanced carpentry coursework and continued NCCER credentialing in construction and skilled trades pathways.

Plumbing Fundamentals is based on the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Level 1 Plumbing curriculum. This course provides students with foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in plumbing systems and practices.

Topics include an introduction to the plumbing profession; safety practices; plumbing tools, math, and drawings; and working with plastic pipe and fittings. Students will also gain experience with copper, cast iron, carbon steel, and stainless steel piping and fittings, as well as fixtures and faucets. Instruction covers DWV (Drain, Waste, and Ventilation) systems and water distribution systems. Emphasis is placed on safety, proper installation techniques, and industry standards.

This course prepares students for advanced plumbing coursework and continued NCCER credentialing in the plumbing and construction trades.

Electrical Fundamentals is based on the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Level 1 Electrical curriculum. This course provides students with foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in electrical systems and practices.

Topics include an introduction to the electrical trade; safety procedures; basic electrical circuits and theory; an introduction to the National Electrical Code (NEC); device boxes and conduit bending and installation; raceways and fittings; conductors and cables; electrical drawings; residential and commercial electrical services; test equipment; and materials and labor estimating. Emphasis is placed on safety, accuracy, and industry-standard practices.

This course prepares students for advanced electrical coursework and continued NCCER credentialing in electrical and construction trades pathways.

National Electrical Code (NEC) Fundamentals introduces students to the National Electrical Code and its role as the standardized source for minimum requirements for safe electrical installations. Students will learn how the NEC is organized and how to navigate and apply its provisions.

Instruction focuses on understanding NEC layout, terminology, and key Articles, including definitions and basic electrical requirements. Emphasis is placed on interpreting code standards and applying them to residential and commercial electrical scenarios. This course provides essential knowledge for students pursuing careers in electrical and construction trades.

National Electrical Code (NEC) Applications builds upon the introductory study of the National Electrical Code by focusing on wiring methods and materials used in electrical installations. Students will deepen their understanding of how the NEC governs safe and compliant wiring practices.

Instruction emphasizes navigating and applying NEC wiring method requirements, including the use of cables, conduit, and wireways. Students will explore relevant NEC Articles and learn how to interpret code standards for residential and commercial electrical scenarios. This course prepares students for advanced electrical coursework and practical application of NEC regulations in the electrical trade.

Introduction to Welding Technology is a hands-on course designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of welding and metal fabrication. Students will learn essential safety practices, proper tool use, and basic welding principles used in industrial and manufacturing settings.

Instruction includes an overview of welding equipment, materials, and processes, with an emphasis on common welding techniques such as shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) and basic metal preparation. Students will develop skills in measuring, cutting, fitting, and joining metal components while following industry-standard safety procedures.

This course provides a strong foundation for students interested in careers in welding, manufacturing, construction, or skilled trades and prepares them for advanced welding coursework.

Blueprint Reading and Interpretation introduces students to the fundamentals of blueprint and engineering drawing interpretation. Students will learn the principles of reading technical drawings and understanding the symbols and conventions used to communicate design intent.

Instruction provides students with the working knowledge necessary to interpret prints in sufficient detail for use in construction, manufacturing, and industrial settings. The course combines traditional lecture and classroom exercises with hands-on shop activities to reinforce concepts through practical application.

This course prepares students for further training and careers in construction, manufacturing, engineering, and skilled trades.

Welding Technology I emphasizes occupational safety training and includes completion of OSHA 10 certification. The course focuses on workplace safety, proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and safe handling of welding and cutting equipment.

Students receive hands-on instruction in fundamental welding and cutting processes, including Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), and thermal cutting techniques. Instruction also includes identification and proper use of welding-related hand tools, welding on various metal thicknesses, and applying multiple welding techniques.

Additional topics include managing welding supplies and consumables, maintaining equipment, and following industry-standard procedures. This course provides a strong foundation for students pursuing careers in welding, manufacturing, construction, or other skilled trades and prepares them for advanced welding coursework.

Welding Technology II focuses on advanced instruction in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and thermal cutting processes. This course emphasizes refining welding skills through extensive hands-on practice.

Students will perfect welding techniques on plate steel in all positions using a variety of industry-recognized welding processes. Instruction includes fillet and groove weld joint design, interpretation of welding symbols and drawings, and an in-depth study of welding codes, specifications, and testing procedures. Special emphasis is placed on American Welding Society (AWS) welder qualification standards.

Students will practice welding in accordance with AWS certification guidelines and, upon completion of the course, may have the opportunity to earn one of five specific AWS welding certifications, depending on skill level and performance.

Pipe Welding Technology provides students with advanced technical instruction in pipe welding, including an understanding of electrical theory related to welding and cutting processes. This course is designed to develop the skills required for industry-standard pipe welding applications.

Students will weld various pipe thicknesses in the 1G, 2G, 5G, and 6G positions, increasing proficiency in positioning, joint preparation, and precision welding. Instruction emphasizes proper tacking techniques, weld quality, and procedures aligned with industry expectations.

Students will continue to apply and refine welding processes including Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW). This course prepares students for advanced welding certifications and careers in industrial, pipeline, and manufacturing welding fields.

Advanced Pipe Welding provides students with the opportunity to develop advanced skills in pipe welding using Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW) processes. This course is designed to prepare students to perform certified welds in accordance with American Welding Society (AWS) D1.1 and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Section IX standards.

Students will further refine welding techniques required for high-quality pipe weldments while gaining a deeper technical understanding of industry certification requirements. Instruction includes the study and application of Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) and Procedure Qualification Records (PQR), as well as proper procedures for completing pipe weldments to code.

Both nondestructive and destructive testing methods, as outlined by AWS D1.1 and ASME Section IX, will be reviewed and implemented. This course prepares students for advanced certification opportunities and careers in industrial, pipeline, and structural welding fields.

Drafting 101 is an introductory course designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of technical drafting and design principles. Students will learn how to communicate ideas and specifications through technical drawings used in engineering, construction, and manufacturing.

Instruction includes basic drafting concepts such as line types, lettering, dimensioning, scale, and geometric construction. Students will create and interpret drawings while developing spatial visualization and precision skills. The course may include both manual drafting techniques and an introduction to computer-aided drafting (CAD).

This course provides a strong foundation for advanced study in drafting, engineering, architecture, construction technology, and manufacturing pathways.

Metallurgy for Welding introduces students to the fundamental principles of metallurgy and how metal behavior relates to welding and fabrication processes. The course emphasizes understanding material properties to support quality welds and proper material selection.

Topics include identification, classification, and properties of ferrous and nonferrous metals; alloys; heat treatment processes; destructive and nondestructive testing methods; cast iron; and plastics. Students will explore how metallurgical characteristics affect weldability, strength, and performance.

This course provides essential knowledge for students pursuing careers in welding, fabrication, manufacturing, and related skilled trades.

Advanced Welding and Fabrication Technology provides students with the opportunity to develop advanced skills in a variety of welding and cutting applications used in modern manufacturing and fabrication environments. Instruction includes thermal cutting; Gas Metal Arc Welding–Pulse (GMAW-P); Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW); Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW); and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW).

Students will also gain a technical understanding of advanced cutting operations, including Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming and the operation of CNC fabrication equipment. Emphasis is placed on precision, efficiency, and adherence to industry standards.

Additional instruction focuses on interpreting technical drawings, calculating material requirements, and following proper procedures for the completion of manufactured projects in the lab. This course prepares students for advanced manufacturing, fabrication, and welding careers and supports continued credentialing and workforce readiness.

Welding Fabrication provides students with instruction in fabrication techniques as they relate to manufacturing, maintenance, and repair applications. This course emphasizes the development of practical skills used in industrial fabrication environments.

Students will learn and apply a variety of fabrication processes, which may include thermal cutting; Gas Metal Arc Welding–Pulse (GMAW-P); Flux-Cored Arc Welding (FCAW); Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW); and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). Instruction also includes the safe and efficient use of basic shop tools and equipment.

Students will interpret and apply engineering drawings and prints commonly used in the welding and fabrication trades, as well as calculate material requirements based on technical drawings. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, safety, quality control, and industry-standard practices.

HVAC/R Fundamentals introduces students to the history of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) and the foundational principles of the trade. Instruction covers heat transfer and thermodynamics, pressure and temperature theory, and the basic refrigeration cycle and its components.

Students will gain a working knowledge of floor and hand tools commonly used in HVAC/R, along with an understanding of relevant safety practices and industry standards. Emphasis is placed on foundational concepts that prepare students for advanced HVAC/R coursework and careers in the heating, cooling, and refrigeration industry.

Refrigeration Systems and Controls focuses on the fundamental principles of refrigeration and the basic refrigeration cycle used in air conditioning systems, heat pumps, and refrigeration equipment. Students will develop an understanding of how cooling systems operate and are controlled.

Instruction includes the study of refrigeration control systems, psychrometrics, and airflow principles. Students will also explore air purification systems, ventilation methods, and dehumidification processes. Emphasis is placed on developing foundational skills required for the installation, maintenance, and servicing of HVAC/R equipment.

This course prepares students for advanced HVAC/R training and careers in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration.

Heating Systems and Controls examines the operation and control of residential and commercial heating systems. The course includes an overview of basic furnace design and the principles of combustion, with a strong emphasis on the safe operation of heating equipment and the proper handling of combustible materials.

Students will learn the basic elements of heating systems, heat transfer laws, psychrometrics, heating load estimating, system design, and heat distribution methods. Emphasis is placed on safety, efficiency, and understanding system performance.

This course prepares students for advanced HVAC/R coursework and careers in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration.

HVAC Controls and Troubleshooting is an advanced course that focuses on control circuits used in commercial and residential heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) systems. Students will develop in-depth knowledge of system controls and diagnostic techniques required for modern HVAC/R equipment.

Instruction includes the analysis and interpretation of advanced HVAC/R schematics, temperature and timing controls, modulating motors, heat pump controls, and other electrical and electronic components used in HVAC/R systems. Emphasis is placed on systematic diagnostic procedures and advanced troubleshooting techniques to identify and correct system malfunctions.

This course prepares students for advanced HVAC/R training and careers in system installation, maintenance, and service.

Work-Based Learning – HVAC provides students with supervised, real-world experience in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC/R) field. This course allows students to apply technical knowledge and skills gained in previous HVAC coursework in a professional work environment.

Students may complete the internship with an approved industry partner or by working with the Neosho School District Operations Team, either during the summer or throughout the academic semester. Internship experiences may include assisting with system installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of HVAC/R equipment in residential, commercial, or institutional settings.

The internship is supervised by the instructor and workplace mentor, with an emphasis on safety, professionalism, communication, and industry-standard practices. This course supports career readiness and provides valuable hands-on experience for students pursuing careers in HVAC/R and related trades.