Mr. Sanderson

Industrial Technology Teacher

Bryan Middle School

About Mr. Sanderson

2023-24 will be my tenth year teaching at Bryan.  I grew up in Elmhurst and attended Jackson, Bryan, and York, graduating in 2008.  I spent my collegiate years in Michigan's Upper Peninsula at Northern Michigan University and received a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education Industrial Technology in 2013.  I have a Master's Degree from the American College of Education in STEM Education Leadership.  My educational philosophy is aligned with District 205's and aims for all students to graduate high school being college, career, and life ready, no matter which path they choose.  

Why is Industrial Technology important?

Industrial Technology courses provide an important link between educational theory and hands-on application. The Industrial Technology curriculum allows students to explore different career opportunities, experience real-life problem solving situations, and realize the connection between the core subject area curriculum and how it can be applied to a variety of careers.

What to Expect During Your 9-Week Quarter as a 6th Grader

-Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and modeling using AutoCAD and Onshape software

-3D printing with our four MakerBot Replicators 

-Woodworking, metalworking, laser engraving/cutting, safe tool/machine usage

-STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

Students will begin working on design skills using AutoCAD (Computer-Aided Design) program.  They will learn the basics that they will build upon each year. They will progress through several CAD drawings, each more complex than the last with the capstone being a detailed scale drawing of a smartphone.  For the latter portion of the class, students will work with their hands in the workshops creating many projects such as a peg game, desk caddy, and bird feeder.  With a huge emphasis on shop safety, your child will surely be proud of the things they've created.  You will definitely hear about this class around the dinner table!


What to Expect During Your 9-Week Quarter as a 7th Grader

-Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and modeling using AutoCAD and Onshape software

-3D printing with our four MakerBot Replicators 

-Woodworking, metalworking, laser engraving/cutting, safe tool/machine usage

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

The 7th-grade curriculum is closely related to STEM principles that will reinforce topics covered in core classes.  Students will start out in the CAD lab designing plans for a tool tray and chassis for a motorized car. The plans include 2D and 3D modeling.  Then we will move into the metal shop where students learn the proper use of many hand tools to construct a sheet metal tool tray. Lastly, they will construct a similar project that will be retrofitted to accommodate 3D-printed car parts.  Students will 3D print pulleys, a motor mount, and wheels to add to the car. Students may also have an opportunity to design and print custom car parts.  Students then move to the woodshop to learn about woodworking technology and to reinforce their skills in reading plans.  They will build an exploding outhouse prank bank- a fun project to end the quarter!


What to Expect During Your 18-Week Semester as an 8th Grader

-Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and modeling using AutoCAD and Onshape software

-3D printing with our four MakerBot Replicators 

-Woodworking, metalworking, laser engraving/cutting, safe tool/machine usage

-STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

Eighth-grade Industrial Technology will get students excited about STEM using design software, 3D printers for prototyping, a laser cutter/engraver, and woodworking machinery you would see in a professional-grade manufacturing lab.  The classes will start in the design lab creating plans for their projects. The Computer Aided Design portion of the class will dive into more complex drafting techniques than covered in previous grade levels such as multiview drawing, isometric drawing, and advanced 3D modeling.  We will be discussing the benefits of 3D printing as a viable option for prototyping. With instructor guidance, students will move into the production phase using top-of-the-line woodworking machinery and the plans they created to construct several projects over the semester such as a treasure box clock, a custom cell phone stand, a cutting board, and a candy dispenser.  Students will become proficient at reading plans.

Degrees and Certifications

MA in STEM Education Leadership from The American College of Education


BA in Secondary Education Industrial Technology from Northern Michigan University

STEM Certified Educator

Contact Information

Email: ksanderson@elmhurst205.org

Phone: 630-617-2350 x3027