#1622 DESIGN & PRINT 1

Prerequisite for: Design & Print 2

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: 1/2 credit

Open to: 9-10-11-12

Description: Students will learn how to create distinctive, vector artwork using Adobe Illustrator, AND how to screen print their designs onto t-shirts!  This course will start out with learning about the basics and several tools in the software, an exploration of typography followed by the printing of single and two color screen prints.  This is a “hands on” class with a mixture of computer and lab assignments for those who don’t mind getting their hands dirty!  Students receive ½ art credit with this course. 

#1623 DESIGN & PRINT 2 (May not be offered every year, plan accordingly)

Requirement(s) needed: Design & Print 1

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: ½ credit

Open to: 9-10-11-12

Description: If you enjoyed Design & Print 1, you will want to continue on with this course!  We will continue to explore vector graphics, vinyl cutting, laser engraving/cutting of various materials, and heat press techniques, the basics of design and layout, and package design using Adobe Illustrator. Students receive ½ art credit with this course.  

#1645 GAME: IT 1

Prerequisite for: Game: IT 2

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: ½ credit

Open to: 9-10-11-12

Description:  Aside from playing games and having fun, this course will introduce you to technical skills related to software development, computer programming and graphic design, utilizing creative, innovative and critical thinking skills.  Students will learn to use engineering, physics and mathematical concepts critical to game development through building 4 games using Construct 3, and explore post-secondary education and career options in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math.  

#1646 GAME: IT 2 (May not be offered every year, plan accordingly)

Requirement(s) needed:  Game:  IT 1

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: ½ credit

Open to: 9-10-11-12

Description:  If you found out that you enjoyed using Construct 3 to develop and create games, Game: IT 2 is the next course in game design and development that engages you in a real life game development company. Students will build 3 guided games that build on some of the functionality required in their own unique team game. Then, students act as a game development company to craft a game following the process of actual game development. Teams are required to form an idea, come up with a marketing plan, outline various roles, develop a proposal, provide weekly status reports and much more.  

#1630 & #2630 ADOBE ® PHOTOSHOP

Duration: 1 year 

Credit: ½ credit per semester

Open to: 9-10-11-12

Description:  Discover the most famous digital photo editing software – Adobe Photoshop!  Students will create cool projects while learning to manipulate images, retouch photographs, design gradients & backdrops, as well as how to make selections and more.  

#1604 WOODWORKING

Prerequisite for: Advanced Woodworking

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: ½ credit

Open to: 9-10-11-12

Description: Do you like working with wood? Do you want to make projects which you can select? This course will introduce the students to careers and power & hand tools operations used in the Woodworking Trades. Machine operation and safety will be emphasized and basic cabinets such as desks and nightstands can be constructed.  Wood turning techniques will also be included.  Fees: Cost of materials beyond the required. 

#1613 ADVANCED WOODWORKING

Requirement(s) needed: Woodworking or Teacher approval

Duration: 1 semester 

Credit: ½ credit

Open to: 9-10-11-12

Description:  Advanced Woodworking is a course to further expand students' understanding of woodworking.  This course will introduce students to cabinet making techniques.  Students will learn advanced uses of materials, machines, CNC machining and other processes.  Machine operation and safety will be emphasized with the highest priority in class.  This class is designed to accommodate a larger student project that requires attention to detail. 

#1614 BASIC MACHINING/METALS

Prerequisite for: Manufacturing Career Internship

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: ½ credit

Open to: 10-11-12

Description: This course is designed to introduce the student to the Machine Trades and careers related to the Metalworking Industry.  The student will be exposed to Machining (i.e. lathes, mill, and grinders), Foundry, Forging, Heat Treating, Metallurgy, Sheet Metal, Blueprint Reading, and Precision Measurement.  This is primarily a hands-on class and no experience is necessary.  

#1605 AUTO MECHANICS

Requirement(s) needed: Small Engines or Introduction to the Automobile (Welding and Basic Electricity are also recommended)

Duration: 1 semester (2 hour block class)

Credit: 1 credit

Open to: 11-12 (10th with Driver’s License)

Description: Auto Mechanics expands a student's knowledge learned in Introduction To The Automobile. This course is more lab based with more advanced electrical and mechanical concepts. Students will learn more about diagnostics, advanced scan tool strategies, alignment, suspensions, drivelines, cylinder head repairs, and some engine rebuilding. This is an excellent course for students who enjoy this as a hobby or future career. Introduction To The Automobile is the prerequisite to this course. 

#1606 ADVANCED AUTO MECHANICS

Requirement(s) needed:  Auto Mechanics and Small Engines or Intro to Auto/Intro to Auto for Beginners

Duration:  1 semester (2 hour block class)

Credit:  1 credit

Open to:  11-12

Description:  Students in the Advanced Auto Mechanics course will be challenged to explore other areas of automotive mechanics.  General areas of study include but are not excluded to: engine rebuilding, advanced computer diagnostics, front and rear suspension service, automotive drive trains and performance. 

#2604 AUTO BODY

Duration: 1 semester (2 hour block class)

Credit: 1 credit

Open to: 11-12

Description:  If you have wondered how those paint jobs you see on TV or at car shows are done, then this class is the beginning step to entering the world of automotive refinishing.  In this class we will study the basic principles of metal straightening, plastic filler repair, block sanding and priming, single stage paints, base coat clear coat paints, paint matching, basic custom painting techniques, airbrushing techniques, and plastic repair/refinishing.  Completion of this course will give you the basic skills needed to pursue a career in the Auto body world or enjoy a rewarding hobby.  After completion of the required course work there will be time for Instructor approved Auto body projects. Students receive 1 art credit with this course. 

#1644 BASIC ELECTRICITY

Prerequisite for: Auto Mechanics (recommended)

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: ½ credit

Open to: 10-11-12

Description: This is the starting place for any student interested in electricity or electronics. Electricians, computer technicians, engineers, auto mechanics and many other career fields need an education in electronics. This is a hands-on course that covers the basics of electricity as well as residential wiring. Students will build two different electronics projects. 

#1674 WELDING

Prerequisite for: Welding/Fabrication (Advanced Welding), Manufacturing Career Internship

Duration: 1 semester (2 hour block class)

Credit: 1 credit

Open to: 10-11-12

Description: This covers basic techniques used in the welding industry: oxyacetylene welding and cutting, shielded metal, gas metal, gas tungsten arc welding, and plasma arc cutting.  Students will spend considerable time in lab developing these skills while being exposed to basic shop practices and career exploration. Welding is a prerequisite for Welding/Fabrication. 

#2678 WELDING/FABRICATION (ADVANCED WELDING)

Requirement(s) needed: Welding

Duration: 1 semester (2 hour block class)

Credit: 1 credit 

Open to: 11-12

Description: This is primarily a project oriented course. Students will layout & design, calculate material costs, repair and/or fabricate personal projects. Further development of welding techniques with pipe, mild steel, aluminum, and stainless steel using Arc, MIG and TIG processes will also be an option. 

#1603 ENGINEERING DESIGN with SOLIDWORKS

Prerequisite for: Advanced Engineering Design with Solidworks

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: ½ credit

Open to: 9-10-11-12

Description: This introductory design and engineering course designed to be a starting point for basic computer aided drafting.  Students will learn the basics of Solidworks, 2D design and processing, and 3D parametric solid modeling.  This course is designed to take students through the design process, working from an idea through final production. *Option for credit at Itasca Community College via portfolio. 

#1611 ADVANCED ENGINEERING DESIGN with SOLIDWORKS 

Requirement(s) needed: Engineering Design with Solidworks

Duration: 1 semester

Credit: ½ credit

Open to: 9-10-11-12

Description: This is an advanced engineering course building off Engineering Design with Solidworks and other skills students bring to the class.  This is a hands-on class where students will be building, modeling, testing, and redesigning to create a quality product. Students will be using Solidworks and CNC machines along with hands-on skills to create their products. 

#1664 CARPENTRY

Duration: 1 semester (2 hour block class)

Credit: 1 credit

Open to: 10-11-12

Description: This is a basic residential carpentry course that includes both lecture and lab. Work will be used to teach the basics of house construction. We will be building small buildings inside the carpentry shop. Students should be prepared to perform hands-on work with hammers, power saws, other carpentry tools, and construction materials.  

#1675 FABRICATION AND DESIGN

Requirement(s) needed: 1 Technical Education Course 

Duration: 1 semester (2 hour block class)

Credit: 1 credit

Open to: 10-11-12

Description: In Fabrication and Design, students will be able to choose a product they would like to create from conceptual design to full manufacturing. Students will have access to all equipment and machinery in the Grand Rapids Tech Center and will learn and apply concepts in advanced machinery and skills such as CNC programming and AutoCAD. Students will operate the class as a student-led business where they will also gain experience in marketing, accounting, material management, and other business operation skills to sell their products.