Technology Education

In today’s rapidly changing world it is imperative to provide students with learning experiences that will allow them to keep pace with our rapidly changing technological society. Our focus is to design a curriculum and provide lifelong learning skills which will incorporate all curricular disciplines and provide all students with relevant, career-focused education to become capable and productive adults.

The FAHS Technology Education Department offers of sequence of courses that focus on five areas or career pathways of study. The pathways will provide students with a solid set of knowledge, experiences, and skills that can serve as a foundation for careers in the areas of Manufacturing, Automotive, Construction, Cabinetmaking and Engineering.

FAHS Technology Education Staff

Jeff Lehr

Tech Ed Teacher

Phone: (920) 563-7811

Andrew Merryfield

Tech Ed Teacher

Phone: (920) 563-7811


Natalie Elfering

Tech Ed Teacher

Phone: (920) 563-7811


Abe Graziano

Tech Ed Teacher

Phone: (920) 563-7811


Justin Buntrock

Tech Ed Teacher

Phone: (920) 563-7811


Courses

Machine Tool & Welding I

Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1/2

Length: Semester

Prerequisite: None

Teacher

Mr. Merryfield

Contact

This introductory course in metalworking will orient students to the skills and knowledge necessary to understand and pursue higher levels of skills in the world of manufacturing. This course orients students to a variety of processes:

Unit:

  • Layout/measurement/blueprint reading (toolbox)

  • Forming/cutting (lathe)

  • Molding (foundry)

  • Assembling (GMAW, SMAW, and OAW welding)

Manufacturing is a growing profession in Jefferson County and throughout the United States. Skilled workers are needed to fill these positions. Note: Students are to wear safety glasses which are the fiscal responsibility of the student.

Machine Tool & Welding II

Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1/2

Length: Semester

Prerequisite: Machine Tool & Welding I

Teacher

Mr. Merryfield

Contact

This activity-based course provides a more in-depth approach to materials, processes, and industrial design systems. Students will build upon concepts and skills acquired in Introduction to Industrial Design (prerequisite course) to learn about:

Units:

  • Advanced blueprint reading (sawed block)

  • Advanced forming/cutting (lathe)

  • Advanced molding and assembling (C-Clamp)

  • Welding Processes (GMAW, GTAW, FCAW, and SMAW)

Examples of some projects include: C-clamps, metal forming of sculptures, advanced welding positions (overhead, vertical up and down).

Note: Students are to wear safety glasses which are the fiscal responsibility of the student.

Advanced Machine Tool & Welding

Grade Level: 11, 12

Credit: 1

Length: Full Year

Prerequisite: Machine Tool & Welding I and Machine Tool & Welding II

Teacher

Mr. Graziano

Contact

This vocational preparation course designed for students who may wish to enter the manufacturing industry as a chosen occupation. Coursework will closely simulate the manufacturing industry. Students will be responsible for the planning, manufacturing, and overseeing processes of customer jobs. Projects may vary from racks, carts, trailers, to vehicle and machined parts.

The course allows students high-level learning experiences involving:

  • Fabrication (Various Projects)

  • Machining (Lathe, Mill)

  • Welding Processes (GMAW, GTAW, FCAW, and SMAW)

Note: Students are to wear safety glasses which are the fiscal responsibility of the student.

Note: This course is a dual credit course with Madison College. Students will receive 8 credits at Madison College upon completion of the course (SMAW, GMAW, Machine Tool, and Fabrication)

Advanced Machine Tool & Welding II Independent Study

Grade Level: 12

Credit: 1

Length: Full Year

Prerequisite: Machine Tool & Welding I and Machine Tool & Welding II, Advanced Machine Tool & Welding

Teacher

Mr. Graziano

Contact

Students who are serious about a career in the manufacturing industry should consider this youth apprenticeship. Students will acquire additional knowledge, skills, and concepts by participating in an industry level work experience in the area of manufacturing.

Manufacturing Youth Apprenticeship

Grade Level: 11, 12

Credit: 1/2-4

Length: Semester- Two Full Years

Prerequisite: Machine Tool & Welding I and Machine Tool & Welding II, Advanced Machine Tool & Welding, Instructor Consent

Teacher

Mr. Graziano

Contact

If the student is serious about a career in the manufacturing industry then this youth apprenticeship is for him/her. Students will build upon and increase manufacturing concepts and skills in the manufacturing industry or business setting.

Energy and Small Engines

Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1/2

Length: Semester

Prerequisite: None

Teacher

Mr. Buntrock

Contact

In today's world, understanding of exhaustible, inexhaustible, and renewable energy sources is critical. The semester will cover topics in both energy and small engines, the majority being in small engines.

During the Energy section of this class, students will learn about fossil fuels and our dependence on them. Students will also learn about alternative energies and the importance of their development on our country. We will also discuss the need to conserve our resources and develop other methods to fulfill our energy needs. To demonstrate knowledge of content, students will complete a research paper and presentation of an energy source of their choosing. Students will then make a PowerPoint and present their energy source to the class.

During the Small Engine section of this class, students will learn about the 4 Stroke Cycle and the role that it plays in our daily lives. Students will learn the 4 distinct actions during the 4 stroke cycle, and what internal components of the engine need to do during each stroke. They will also gain an understanding of how various components must be timed for the cycles to function. Students will also be required to perform various labs during this portion of the class in which they will be completing inspection, measurements, disassembly, and reassembly of a small engine. If time allows, students will be able to bring in an engine from home for engine diagnosis and repair towards the end of the semester.

Students are required to provide a combination lock and approved safety glasses during the labs. They will also be required to complete and pass a nationally recognized Safety Module before they are allowed to begin any lab exercises.

Note: This course is recommended for the Automotive sequence but is not required.

Automotive Tech I

Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1/2

Length: Semester

Prerequisite: Energy and Small Engines Recommended

Teacher

Mr. Buntrock

Contact

The Automotive Technology 1 course is designed to provide the student with a basic knowledge of various automotive systems and the recommended maintenance required to keep the automobile operating safely and efficiently. Emphasis will be placed on the areas of safety, power and hand tools, the 4-Stroke Cycle, batteries, brakes, fluid and lubricants, and tires. Various "hands-on" lab modules are required during this course. Students will also have an attempt to gain ASE certification in brakes.

Students are required to purchase approved safety glasses, and a minimal charge may be imposed for supplies used during this course. Students must also pass a nationally recognized Safety Module to enable them to perform the required labs during this class.

Automotive Tech II

Grade Level: 11, 12

Credit: 1

Length: Full Year

Prerequisite: Automotive Tech I, Energy and Small Engines Recommended

Teacher

Mr. Buntrock

Contact

This course is being offered as year one of the two-year Automotive Program. Students will receive instruction in the automotive areas of brakes, steering, suspension, engine performance, and electrical. The students will gain knowledge in all aspects of suspension and steering to include inspection of components, automatic and manual transmissions, wheel alignment, engine performance and diagnostic testing, and electrical system operation and troubleshooting. Proper techniques and procedures for diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of these systems will be practiced, which will also require the students to utilize diagnostic and specialized equipment. Work-based learning is also part of this program to assist the student in the development of his or her work skills. Instruction will include live vehicle work as well as working with computer software and training aids from automotive components.

The students are required to provide approved safety glasses for this course and may be imposed a minimal expense for supplies used during this class. A required nationally recognized Safety Module must be completed prior to performing any required labs during this course.

Advanced Automotive Systems

Grade Level: 12

Credit: 1

Length: Full Year

Prerequisite: Automotive Tech I, Automotive Tech II, Energy and Small Engines Recommended


Teacher

Mr. Buntrock

Contact

Advanced Automotive Systems is a vocationally oriented class that will prepare students with basic skills needed to enter a post-secondary training program for future entry into an automotive service career. Students taking this class will work toward “Advanced Society of Automotive Service Excellence” (ASE) and State Youth Apprenticeship competencies in the areas of Brakes, Steering & Suspension, Electricity and Electronics, and Engine Performance. A large portion of class time will be spent on hands-on activities that will allow the students to expand their knowledge and skills developed in Automotives 1 & 2. In the extensive lab portion of this course, students will be required to utilize communication skills which will enable them to generate repair orders, perform inspections and diagnosis of various systems malfunctions, and the repairs required to repair the concern. The diagnosis will then require the student to create a repair estimate to determine the cost of the needed repair. After receiving the customer’s approval of the repairs needed, the students will then proceed with the repair as well as quality control the job upon completion. Students may be required to pay a minimal fee for materials. A nationally Safety Module must be completed for this course.

Note: This class is an articulated credit course with Blackhawk Technical College.

Automotive Youth Apprenticeship

Grade Level: 11, 12

Credit: 1/2-3

Length: Semester to 2 Full Years

Prerequisite: Automotive Tech I, Enrollment in Automotive Tech II, Instructor Consent

Teacher

Mr. Buntrock

Contact

If the student is serious about a career in the automotive industry then this youth apprenticeship is for him/her. Students will build upon and increase automotive concepts and skills in the automotive industry or business setting.

Beginning Cabinetmaking

Grade Level: 9, 10, 11 12

Credit: 1/2

Length: Semester

Prerequisite: None

Teacher

Mr. Lehr

Contact

This is an introductory course to woodworking and cabinet making. It will allow the students to gain the knowledge and skills needed to plan and produce fine woodworking projects. This course will include types of wood, measurement and math skills, reading work instructions, making a cost estimate, safely learning how to use hand tools, power tools, and equipment used in industry. Beginning projects are generally, but not limited to, a shop stool and cutting board. Second-quarter students will build a project of their choosing.

NOTE: Safety glasses must be worn at all times and they are the fiscal responsibility of the student. Also, there is a fee for any building materials used in class. Projects can only be taken home after the school has received payment. If there are any issues or concerns please contact the building principal.

Advanced Cabinetmaking

Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1

Length: Full Year

Prerequisite: Beginning Cabinetmaking

Teacher

Mr. Lehr

Contact

This advanced course will allow students an in-depth study of woodworking and cabinet making. It includes Advanced skill activities on all equipment, drawer construction, various joinery techniques, design elements, cost estimates, creating work instructions, and problem -solving. This is accomplished through personal project selection and MATC dual credit. Students will create a production plan and complete it from start to finish to prove proficiency in the design, planning, and purchasing of materials.

NOTE: Safety glasses must be worn at all times and they are the fiscal responsibility of the student. Also, there is a fee for any building materials used in class. Projects can only be taken home after the school has received payment. If there are any issues or concerns please contact the building principal.

Cabinetmaking Independent Study

Grade Level: 11, 12

Credit: 1

Length: Full Year

Prerequisite: Advanced Cabinetmaking

Teacher

Mr. Lehr

Contact

If the student is serious about a career in the cabinetmaking industry then this youth apprenticeship is for him/her. Students will build upon and increase cabinetmaking concepts and skills in the cabinetmaking industry or business setting.

3D Solid Modeling

Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1

Length: Full Year

Prerequisite: None

Teacher

Mr. Graziano

Contact

Industry and technology have changed and evolved. We have gone from a 2D world of drawings to a 3D world where engineers, designers, architects and, production personnel can look at an object from all angles using software. In this STEM course, students will be using industry-standard software, SolidWorks. Students will be involved in an interactive process where they can explore practical applications of the concepts they learn. They will put their design concepts into practice, where ideas may become reality in this course.

Students will learn all aspects of the software SolidWorks. Including sketching, features, assembling, creating blueprints, simulation testing and, video production of models. They will then have the opportunity to produce their designs in a variety of different ways. Through modeling using wood and printing via laser engraver, plotter, and 3D printer.

At the completion of the course, the students will be required to take the CSWA(Certified SolidWorks Associate) exam. This will certify the students as an amateur drafter in SolidWorks.

CIM: Computer Integrated Manufacturing

Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1

Length: Full Year

Prerequisite: None

Teacher

Mr. Merryfield

Contact

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) is an exciting, rapidly changing field exploring the numerous ways in which computer technologies are linked to manufacturing. The course applies the concepts of solid modeling and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to develop prototypes and projects. The course will look at the numerous ways in which computer technology enhances and extends the potential of manufacturing systems.

Students will:

  • Utilize computer modeling programs to create 3-D designs.

  • Analyze designs using mass property analysis techniques for properties such as mass, volume, and moment of inertia.

  • Explain the use of rapid prototyping in manufacturing.

  • Explain the impact programmable machines have had on manufacturing.

  • Assess applications of programmable machines.

  • Write Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programs to accomplish given tasks using G-code and M-code.

  • Measure parts accurately using common instruments such as micrometers and calipers.

  • Use Computer Assisted Manufacturing (CAM) software to develop a CNC program which accurately produces a given part.

  • Assess appropriate applications for robotics in the manufacturing industry.

  • Differentiate between fixed and flexible manufacturing.

  • Explain the components of a Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) system.

  • Justify appropriate applications for CIM.

Introduction to Engineering

Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1

Length: Full Year

Prerequisite: None

Teacher

Mr. Graziano

Contact

The intent of this STEM course is to provide students with an orientation into the careers and challenges of engineering. Students who complete this course will learn the concepts necessary in order to develop their ideas into solutions that will improve our lives. Students will apply mathematical and scientific concepts to real-life situations.

Topics include:

  • Concurrent Engineering

  • Measurement

  • Intro to 3D Solid Modeling

  • Materials

  • Electricity

  • Problem Solving

  • Engineering Disciplines

Note: This is a prerequisite for the Principles of Engineering course.

Principles of Engineering

Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1

Length: Full Year

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering

Teacher

Mr. Graziano

Contact

The intent of the STEM course is to provide students with a more in-depth understanding of the challenges and requirements it takes to be an engineer. Students who complete this course will know and understand what it takes to develop solutions and be a productive member of a team. They will apply science concepts primarily dealing with physics to assist them in their design challenges that mimic challenges currently faced by working engineers. Finally, students will not only be problem-solving but they will be doing it in a hands-on manner using the resources available in the various Fort Atkinson Technology Facilities.

Topics include:

  • Gantt and Flow Charts

  • Mechanisms

  • Fluid Power

  • Electrical Circuits

  • Gears

  • Analysis engineering

  • Problem Solving

  • Design and modeling

  • Industrial design

Upon completion of this course, students will receive an elective credit in technology education at Fort Atkinson High School as well as a science equivalency credit at Fort Atkinson High School

Construction I

Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1/2

Length: Semester

Prerequisite: None

Teacher

Mr. Lehr

Contact

Students will take part in classroom and lab activities to learn construction techniques used in industry today. The curriculum used for this course allows students to gain a nationally recognized construction training certification through the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). The course will include techniques and information including basic construction safety, construction math, hand tools, power tools, construction drawings, communication skills, employability skills, materials handling, rough framing, roofing, drywall hanging, and mudding.

Note: Safety glasses must be worn at all times and they are the fiscal responsibility of the student.

Construction II

Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1/2

Length: Semester

Prerequisite: Construction I

Teacher

Mr. Lehr

Contact

Building upon the skills obtained in Construction 1 (required), this course will provide students the opportunity to design and plan a larger-scale project. This course is a dual credit class through Madison College. Students can earn 3 credits towards the construction program at Madison College by completing the course. Students will use prior skills and gain advanced skills by completing the selected project. Projects will include building a toolbox, sawhorse, bean bag toss, and the final project will be shed, gazebo, etc.

Note: Safety glasses must be worn at all times and they are the fiscal responsibility of the student.

Advanced Construction

Grade Level: 11, 12

Credit: 1/2

Length: Semester

Prerequisite: Construction I & II

Teacher

Mr. Lehr

Contact

Advanced Construction is the capstone course in the technology education construction pathway. Students will be improving on already developed skills in safety, floor framing, blueprint reading, and drywall. They will be gaining new skills in window installation, door installation, electrical, plumbing, and finish carpentry. These improved and new skills will be developed through a semester-long project of entirely building a half bathroom. The project includes building a floor system, walls, stairs, door and window installation, PEX plumbing, PVC plumbing, residential wiring, sheathing, drywalling, trimwork, vanity installation, and proper teardown. Upon completion of the construction pathway, students will be ready to either go directly into the workforce, continued education, or adult apprenticeship in construction fields.

Consumer Care: Home and Auto

Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12

Credit: 1/2

Length: Semester

Prerequisite: None

Teacher

Ms. Elfering

Contact

Consumer Home & Automotive Care is a course that will provide the student with the information and practical skills required to assist them in fixing some basic problems around the house or with your vehicle. Students will learn basic home repair in the areas of drywall, electrical circuits, plumbing, and painting. Students will also learn about some of the basics about their vehicles in learning about how to change their oil, change a tire, etc. This course is for any student who may or may not want to pursue further studies in the Technology Education Department at Fort Atkinson High School. If you are considering renting or owning a home or car someday, this course is designed for you!

Note: Students are to wear safety glasses which are the fiscal responsibility of the student.

Construction Youth Apprenticeship

Grade Level: 11, 12

Credit: 1/2-3

Length: Semester to Two Full Years

Prerequisite: Construction I, Enrollment in Construction II, Instructor Consent

Teacher

Mr. Lehr

Contact

If the student is serious about a career in the construction industry then this youth apprenticeship is for him/her. Students will build upon and increase construction concepts and skills in the construction industry or business setting.