Required Freshman Class:

PLTW Engineering Essentials

Course Number(s):  T431511

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 9

Engineering Essentials is a one semester class designed to be a student's first exposure to PLTW. The course introduces students to a variety of engineering tools such as geographic information systems (GIS), 3-D solid modeling software, and prototyping equipment. Students learn and apply the engineering design process to develop solutions to relevant problems in the real world.

Note: Required 9th Grade class for all Johnson Freshmen.

Required Freshmen Class (choose one):

Intro To Computer Programming

Course Number(s):  T405301

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 9-12

This 1 semester course teaches students how to make computer programs.  The first quarter uses the Scratch block programming language to learn basic programming concepts and methods to create video games and interactive stories..  The second quarter uses MIT AppInventor to create programs that can run on tablets and phones. 

Note: One of three required choices for required for Johnson Freshmen. 

Introduction to Flight Simulators

Course Number(s):  N409011

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites:  None

Grade: 9-12

This foundation course introduces students to the basic principles of flight. Students learn about the lift and drag of an aircraft, torque effect, load factors turbulence, aircraft systems and federal air regulations.  Students acquire and apply knowledge and skills while flying in the simulators. Students will take on the roles of Pilot, Co-Pilot and air traffic control and utilize communication skills and problem solving throughout the course. There will also be exploration of careers in the aviation industry.

Note: This is one of three required choices for required for Johnson Freshmen.

Introduction to Industrial Robotics 

Course Number(s): T401511

Length: 1 Semesters (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: PLTW Engineering Essentials (can be taken concurrently)

Length: 1 Semesters (2 Credits)

Grade: 9-12

Introduction to Industrial Robotics Lab is a lab based science elective that introduces industrial robotic programming and applications.  The course uses the Festo Mechatronics Training Systems to address the state of Minnesota’s physical science standards.  Topics for the course include: electrical circuits, digital logic, sensors, pneumatic and electrical actuators, programmable logic controllers, and computer modeling and simulations with industrial applications.  This course is designed to prepare students to continue training in electromechanical systems at St Paul College or other institutions.

Note: This is one of three required choices for Johnson Freshmen.

Introduction to the Trades: Build

Course Number(s): T401441

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 9-12

The goal of this course it to help students prepare and explore various trades through skill development, personal development and the knowledge on how to access good jobs with good benefits in the construction industry.  Education hands on experiences will be rotated for different trade areas to learn about different areas of construction as a career trades.  Class work will include the development of part drawings, blueprint reading, plan of procedures, precise measurement and estimating materials. Student’s projects teach the safe and proper use of a variety of woodworking tools. Students are required to complete projects that are designed to develop primary woodworking skills. Safety glasses are required.

Note: There is a $10 lab fee for this course.  This is one of three required choices Johnson Freshmen.

Required Sophomore Course: 

PLTW: Engineering Essentials II 

Course Number(s): 

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: PLTW Engineering Essentials 

Grade: 10 

Engineering Essentials II is a one semester class designed to be a student's continuation in PLTW. The course continues the students' exploration of a variety of engineering tools such as geographic information systems (GIS), 3-D solid modeling software, and prototyping equipment. Students learn and apply the engineering design process to develop solutions to relevant problems in the real world.

Note:  This is the suggested sophomore course for students in the Innovative Technology Pathway

Required Junior Course: 

PLTW: Principles of Engineering 

Course Number(s): T431491

Length: 2 Semesters (4 Credits)

Prerequisites: PLTW Engineering Essentials II

Grade: 11 

PLTW: Principles of Engineering with Physical Science covers general concepts of engineering, physics, engineering technology and its career possibilities. This course involves a number of projects that explore careers in engineering, principles of design, control systems, materials science, general mechanics and chemistry. The projects involve learning and applying fundamental principles of physics and chemistry, solving problems, designing and modifying devices. The will also learn how engineers address concerns about the social and political consequences of technological change.

Note:  This is the suggested junior course for students interested in Engineering.

Required Senior Course:

PLTW: Capstone 

Course Number(s):  T431621

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: PLTW Principles of Engineering

Grade: 12

This course is the capstone course in the PLTW engineering pathway. Students spend a majority of the course identifying and solving a real-life open-ended engineering problem.  At the conclusion of the course, students present their solutions to a panel of engineers who provide feedback and critiquing student solutions.  Capstone is about the journey of seeking a well-justified original solution to a real-world problem. No one will know the solution outcome at the beginning of the journey, but all groups will move through the problem solving process and gain skills they will be able to implement in any profession for the rest of their lives.  

Aerospace Courses

Introduction to Flight Simulators

Course Number(s):  T409011

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites:  None

Grade: 9-12

This foundation course introduces students to the basic principles of flight. Students learn about the lift and drag of an aircraft, torque effect, load factors turbulence, aircraft systems and federal air regulations.  Students acquire and apply knowledge and skills while flying in the simulators. Students will take on the roles of Pilot, Co-Pilot and air traffic control and utilize communication skills and problem solving throughout the course. There will also be exploration of careers in the aviation industry.

Drone Flight Training

Course Number(s): T409021

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Introduction to Flight Simulators

Grade: 10-12

Critical thinking, teamwork, problem solving, communication and integration of math and science skills will be utilized as students are presented with the knowledge needed to pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Remote Pilots License test (commercial drone pilots license).  A significant portion of this class will focus on flight regulations, airspace, weather and various flight characteristics.  The flight simulator lab will make the experience of learning these concepts more engaging and students will also use drone flight simulator software to get a basic understanding of drone controls. 

Advanced Flight Simulators

Course Number(s): T409031

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Introduction to Flight Simulators

Grade: 10-12

Through a combination of simulator flying and classroom instruction, this course will prepare students to take their FAA Private Pilot written exam. Topics in the course include airplane systems, aerodynamic principles, communications, navigation, flight planning and learning the same flight maneuvers as one would experience in private pilot flight training.

Engineering Elective Courses

PLTW: Computer Science Principles (Honors)

Course Number(s):  T431461

Length: 2 Semesters (4 credits)

Prerequisites: Introduction to Computer Programming

Grade: 10-12

This year-long course uses the Python programming language to investigate how computers are programmed and used to share information through the internet, analyze data sets and solve complex problems with computer models.

1st Quarter - Python Programming

2nd Quarter -The Internet

3rd Quarter - Analyzing Data

4th Quarter - Computer Simulations

PLTW: Civil Engineering & Architecture (Honors)

Course Number(s): T431611

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Intro to the Trades: Build and Construction Carpentry or instructor approval

Grade: 11-12

Note: This course is offered every other year.  It will be offered for SY 2026-27

The major focus of the Civil Engineering and Architecture (CEA) course is a long-term project that involves the development of a local property site.  As students learn about civil engineering and architecture, they apply what they learn to the design and development of this property.  Developing the property as a simulation and model allows students to learn what civil engineers and architects experience while developing properties. The CEA course is structured to enable students to have a variety of experiences that will provide an overview of both fields.  Students work individually and in teams exploring hands-on projects and activities to learn the characteristics of civil engineering and architecture. In addition, students will use state of the art software packages to help them design solutions to solve class assignments and projects. Students learn about documenting their project, solving problems and communicating their solutions to various audiences.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (PLTW) (Honors)

Course Number(s):  T431711

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Principles of Engineering

Grade: 10-12

How are things made? What processes go into creating products? Is the process for making a water bottle the same as it is for a musical instrument? How do assembly lines work? How has automation changed the face of manufacturing? While students discover the answers to these questions, they’re learning about the history of manufacturing, robotics and automation, manufacturing processes, computer modeling, manufacturing equipment, and flexible manufacturing systems.

Note: Students can earn college credit by passing PLTW summative test at the end of the semester.  This course is offered every other year starting in 2025.

Construction Trades Courses

Introduction to the Trades: Build

Course Number(s): T401441

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 9-12

The goal of this course it to help students prepare and explore various trades through skill development, personal development and the knowledge on how to access good jobs with good benefits in the construction industry.  Education hands on epxeriences will be rotated for different trade areas to learn about different areas of construction as a career trades.  Class work will include the development of part drawings, blueprint reading, plan of procedures, precise measurement and estimating materials. Student’s projects teach the safe and proper use of a variety of woodworking tools. Students are required to complete projects that are designed to develop primary woodworking skills. Safety glasses are required.

Note: There is a $10 lab fee for this course.

Construction Carpentry

Course Number(s): T404501

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Intro to the Trades: Build

Grade: 10-12

Construction Carpentry will provide students the opportunity to explore the construction trades in a classroom and lab environment. Students will develop a variety of technical skills associated with residential construction, build simple structures and make minor repairs on residential buildings. Areas of construction include but not limited to the following: safety procedures, building layout, rough construction, electrical systems, drywall, applied mathematics, communications, and career opportunities. Safety glasses are required.

Note: There is a $10 lab fee for this course.

PLTW Civil Engineering & Architecture (Honors)

Course Number(s): T431611

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Intro to the Trades: Build and Construction Carpentry or instructor approval

Grade: 11-12

Note: This course is offered every other year.  It will be offered for SY 2026-27

The major focus of the Civil Engineering and Architecture (CEA) course is a long-term project that involves the development of a local property site.  As students learn about civil engineering and architecture, they apply what they learn to the design and development of this property.  Developing the property as a simulation and model allows students to learn what civil engineers and architects experience while developing properties. The CEA course is structured to enable students to have a variety of experiences that will provide an overview of both fields.  Students work individually and in teams exploring hands-on projects and activities to learn the characteristics of civil engineering and architecture. In addition, students will use state of the art software packages to help them design solutions to solve class assignments and projects. Students learn about documenting their project, solving problems and communicating their solutions to various audiences.

Note: Students can earn college credit by passing a PLTW summative test at the end of the semester.

Construction Trades Courses offered outside of Johnson Aerospace and Engineering

Finishing Trades Institute (FTIUM) Early Apprenticeship

NOTE: Registration is dependent on student application and interview.  If you are interested in his program, please talk to your School Counselor or Work-Based Learning teacher for more information

Location: Finishing Trades Institute 3205 Country Drive, Little Canada, MN 55117

Time: 8am-10:30am OR 12pm-2:30pm, Available Fall and Spring Semesters, Monday-Friday

Transportation: Metro Transit

Course Number(s):  T401201 (registration is dependent on application and interview)

Grade: 12 

3 High School CTE Credits 

Intensive hands-on course with approximately 80% of the learning done on the training floor. This course prepares students to be work ready and mimics a job in the FTIUM trades. The applicant shall be physically capable of performing the essential functions of the CTE program without posing a direct threat to the health and safety of themselves or any other individuals, with reasonable accommodations. Students will be in a dirty, dusty environment and will get drywall mud and paint on themselves and their clothes. Student participation and collaborative work are vital aspects of this program. For more information about FTIUM visit FTIUM.edu 

49ers Construction Explore

Course Number(s):  T404571

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 12

If you are interested in the 49ers year long course, see your school counselor or work based learning coordinator.

This course provides students with an introduction of the basic equipment used in the construction industry. Students learn about basic equipment operations and job responsibilities. This course prepares students to use concepts pertaining to safety, maintenance, mathematics and communication that operating engineers may experience.

49ers Basic Grade/Construction Math

Course Number(s):  T404581

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: 49ers Construction Explore

Grade: 12

If you are interested in the 49ers year long course, see your school counselor or work based learning coordinator.

In the construction industry, grading is the work of ensuring a level base, or a grade with a specific slope. Grade construction work is needed in almost any building project, from laying a building foundation to landscaping to roadwork. In this course, you will be introduced to core equipment used in the staking process, as well as personal protective equipment (PPE) used in the construction industry. Communication processes used in the construction industry for interpreting and setting grade are also an important part of this course. Finally, you will learn mathematical concepts related to the construction industry for grade staking.

49ers Construction Equipment Fundamentals

Course Number(s):  T434501

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: 49ers Construction Explore and 49ers Basic Grade/Construction Math

Grade: 12

If you are interested in the 49ers year long course, see your school counselor or work based learning coordinator.

In the construction industry, the proper use of heavy equipment is necessary to ensure quality work and a safe work environment. In addition being able to recognize and determine the use of specific heavy equipment, will create a more efficient work team. Heavy equipment is used in almost any construction project, from building a house to excavating for a new road. In this course, you will be introduced to core equipment used by operating engineers, as well as their maintenance needs. Communication processes used by operating engineers, rigging and signaling practices, safety awareness and mathematical concepts related to the construction industry are also covered.

49ers Mobile Equipment Maintenance

Course Number(s):  T434511

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: 49ers Construction Explore and 49ers Basic Grade/Construction Math and 49ers Construction Equipment Fundamentals

Grade: 12

If you are interested in the 49ers year long course, see your school counselor or work based learning coordinator.

This course focuses directly on maintenance of mobile equipment through a series of engaging tutorials. A major focus of the course is on maintenance safety including such topics as LOTO. Other topics include tools and fasteners, preventative maintenance principles, engines, intake and exhaust, fuel systems, coolant systems, filters and filtration, lubrication systems, hydraulics, electrical systems, tires, and tracks and undercarriages.

Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair 1

Course Number(s):  T432111

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 10-12

Note: This course is offered at the District Automotive Center, located at 810 Palace Avenue (inside the Global Arts Plus Upper Building). See Ms. Voigt regarding a bus to the location.

Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair 1 is designed for students who want to explore and train for a career in an automotive related field .  This course is open to students of all skill levels who wish to gain a deep understanding of today’s automobiles. 

 MLR1 will primarily focus on instruction relating to entry-level automotive shop work practices, such as: Safe use of automotive related tools and equipment.  Safe practices when lifting vehicles for service.  Accessing and using professional vehicle service information to perform repair operations.  Learning automotive parts and systems terminology.  How to perform a professional lube, oil, and filter service.  How to perform tire mounting and wheel balancing services.  Instruction on 12-volt electrical system principles, including automotive lighting and accessory systems.  Classroom and shop activities will simulate automotive service industry operations through the use of training aids, manufacturer donated training vehicles, and customer work as available.  Completion of Maintenance and Light Repair 1 will give the student a good foundation in the operation and preventative maintenance of an automobile and prepare students for entry-level employment, as well as further advanced training at the High School Automotive Center.

Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair 2

Course Number(s):  T432121

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair 1

Grade: 10-12

Note: This course is offered at the District Automotive Center, located at 810 Palace Avenue (inside the Global Arts Plus Upper Building). See Ms. Voigt regarding a bus to the location.

Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair 2 is designed for students who want to explore career opportunities and requirements to be a professional service technician.  This course is open to students who have completed Maintenance and Light Repair 1 or equivalent coursework. MLR2 will primarily focus on the development of student's hands-on-skills necessary to perform vehicle maintenance and light repair skillsets associated with entry-level employment such as:  Preventive maintenance inspections /lube, oil, and filter service.  Tire and wheel service; including TPMS service.  Suspension system service such as; stabilizer bar, shock absorber, and strut service.  Steering system tie rod end service.  Introduction to wheel alignment.  Hydraulic brake and power brake assist system inspections.   Drum brake and disc brake system inspections.  Electrical wiring repair and circuit integrity checks.  Battery maintenance and testing.   Starter motor and generator testing, as well as removal and replacement.  Introduction to internal combustion engine systems and inspections.  Drivetrain and transmission fluid inspections and service.  Classroom and shop activities will simulate automotive service industry operations through the use of training aids, manufacturer donated training vehicles, and customer work as available.  Completion of Maintenance and Light Repair 2 will give the student a good foundation in the operation and service of an automobile and prepare students for entry-level employment, as well as further advanced training at the High School Automotive Center, post-secondary automotive programs, and ASE certification.

Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair 3

Course Number(s):  T432131

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair 2

Grade: 11-12

Note: This course is offered at the District Automotive Center, located at 810 Palace Avenue (inside the Global Arts Plus Upper Building). See Ms. Voigt regarding a bus to the location.

Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair 3 is designed for students who want to explore career opportunities and requirements to be a professional service technician.  This course is open to students who have completed Maintenance and Light Repair 2 or equivalent coursework. MLR3 will primarily focus on the development of student's hands-on-skills necessary to perform vehicle maintenance and light repair service, and diagnostic procedures associated with entry-level employment such as:  Preventive maintenance inspections /lube, oil, and filter service.  Tire and wheel service, including plug/patch tire repairs.  Suspension system inspections and service, including diagnosis of worn ball joints.  Steering system inspection and service, including enabling/disabling supplemental restraint systems.  Perform a pre-alignment inspection and perform a four-wheel alignment.  Drum brake system inspection and service, including drum brake machining.  Disc brake inspection and service, including parking brake service and adjustment.  Diagnose grounds, shorts, opens, and resistance electrical circuit faults, including accessory, starter, and charging circuits.  Inspect and test heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.  Drivetrain system inspection and service, including drive axle and drive shaft service.  Identify and research electric/hybrid vehicle high-voltage circuit components, service precautions, and safety guidelines.  Classroom and shop activities will simulate automotive service industry operations through the use of training aids, manufacturer donated training vehicles, and customer work as available.  Completion of Maintenance and Light Repair 3 will give the student a good foundation in the operation and service of an automobile and prepare students for entry-level employment, prepare students for a post-secondary automotive program, and ASE certification.

Supplemental Courses for this Pathway Include

Public Speaking  

Course Number(s): L406411 

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits) 

Prerequisites: None 

Grade: 10-12 

This class is designed for anybody who wants to learn  to become a better speaker in front of groups. The class  will become a tight-knit group as students speak and  listen to each other on a daily basis. A variety of  speeches will be learned and performed, including  informative speeches, demonstration speeches,  persuasive speeches, and debate. This skill of knowing  what you want to say and saying it well will help you to  get what you want throughout your entire life! 

Psychology AP (Honors)

Course Number(s): H457301

Length: 2 Semesters  (4 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 10-12

AP Psychology introduces students to study of behavior and mental processes. It introduces the psychological facts, principles and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields. Topics covered include research methods, sensation and perception, states of consciousness, learning and memory, motivation and emotion, developmental psychology, theories of personality, and abnormal psychology. Students will use observation and theory to study human interaction, learning, or development, methods and techniques of primary research, and legal and ethical procedures related to research. Students will refine a topic into a research problem and will create a plan for data collection and for gathering and analyzing data. They will compare the findings to theories of human interaction, develop conclusions based on the findings, and identify implications for further study.

Students learn to study efficiently but critically, read a large amount of written material, practice rigorous methods for understanding and learning facts, creating and testing hypotheses, organizing, debating, and evaluating concepts and theories and explaining and using statistical data. Students will be expected to take the AP Test in Psychology.