Technology Cluster

Computer Technology

Computer Technology is a constantly changing field. To keep pace with these changes, equipment and curriculum is updated regularly here at the vo-tech. 9th and 10th grade students are trained in numerous computer operations, covering topics such as: using popular business application software, creating Internet home pages using HTML, and computer programming with C++ and Visual Basic. The focus in the 11th and 12th grade years is on PC Maintenance & Repair, Installing and Configuring Operating Systems, and Computer Networking. Students will have the opportunity to take CompTIA’s A+ certification exam. This certification can be used to help gain employment as a technician, or as the foundation for related technical degrees from a number of colleges/trade schools/universities.

What Qualities Should I Have?
You should have an interest in various areas of computer technology, and above average logic and problem-solving skills. You will need good work habits and study skills, as well as a desire to produce neat and accurate work. Students will also be expected to follow written and verbal instructions well.

Instructor: Chuck Greco (ext. 3337)

Drafting and Design

Drafting and Design includes making accurate working plans and detailed drawings from rough sketches to be used for engineering or manufacturing purposes. Technology demands precision and standardization and drafting meets this need by providing an accurate and efficient method of recording and analyzing ideas.

What Qualities Should I Have?
You should like to draw, especially drawings from which something can be built. You should be able to visualize objects and be mechanically inclined. Being systematic and thorough in your school work and outside activities is helpful to the drafting student. You will also be required to sit at a drawing board or computer for long periods of time. Additionally, you should like working on projects with considerable detail and have interest in mathematics and science.

Instructor: Pamela Slusser (ext. 3345)

Electronics Technology

Electronics, although a relatively new science, is an industrial giant. To many people, electronics means entertainment, radio, television, and high fidelity record players. But entertainment takes in only one segment of the industry. In reality, electronics is involved in virtually every type of industrial activity. The field of electronics includes: radio, sonar, telemetering, television, telephone, and other forms of communication, industrial measuring, recording, indication and controlling devices, navigational equipment, missile and space craft guidance and transmitting instruments, electronic computers, and many other types of equipment using vacuum tubes and semi-conductor circuits.

What Qualities Should I Have?
You should have a strong interest in electronics and above average abilities in math and science. Much of the material taught is very theoretical and you should, therefore, have the ability to work with invisible quantities. Good manual dexterity is also required.

Instructor: TBA (ext. 3442)

Printing Technology

Printing is one of our chief means of communication. Printing craft workers are employed to produce newspapers, magazines, books, business forms, textiles, and thousands of other printed materials. Students are exposed to basic layout and design principles using Adobe Creative Suite (In-Design, Photoshop, Illustrator). Great emphasis is placed on polyester platemaking, and offset press operations. Bindery operations, ink and paper theory, silk screen technology, vinyl sign making, heat transfer imaging, and business operations are also an integral part of the Printing Technology program. More advanced students progress into color theory and 4-color offset printing. In their senior year, more advanced students are eligible for consideration and placement into CMAVTS’s cooperative education program.

What Qualities Should I Have?
First and foremost, are a good attitude and willingness to work. These two qualifications are essential for success in the Printing Technology lab. Color perception, good eyesight, neatness, good organizational skills, attention to detail, and self-motivation are fundamental qualities necessary for success. Ability to communicate effectively, in writing, ability to type, and an understanding of basic mathematical and scientific skill are also required for success.

What Will I Do As a 9th Grade Student?
This exploratory program will offer a student an opportunity to experience both hands-on and theoretical information about Printing Technology. These experiences are aimed to generate interest, and general knowledge within the Printing Technology field. A ninth grade student will experience introductory skills in layout and design, polyester platemaking, offset press operations, bindery skills, and silk screen printing technology. Freshmen will be required to complete, at a minimum, three projects. The design and production of a memo pad will be the first project completed. The second project will be a creation and production of business cards. The third project is the creation of a silk screen project (T-shirts are the most widely chosen option). More advanced freshmen will advance into introductory vinyl lettering and heat transfer imaging.

Instructor: Daniel Casey (ext. 3346)