Signature Academy of Aviation and Aerospace
Aerospace Engineering
Students choosing to enter this cluster should realize the close relationship of mathematics and science to the engineering and technology disciplines and expect to regularly apply mathematics and scientific principles throughout the courses in this cluster. They enjoy challenging curricula involving practical applications of engineering principles and technological literacy.
Knowledge gained by students in this cluster includes science and mathematics principles applicable to engineering and engineering related careers. As technology continues its rapid expansion, adequately preparing students for engineering-related careers is essential and serves as the primary purpose of this cluster. The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics cluster classroom and laboratory provide safe and appropriate settings for student exploration and learning. The structured, yet active environment stimulates students' creativity and helps them develop the necessary skills for future employment.
Course Sequence
This project-based learning course engages students who are curious about aviation and aerospace careers. This course will introduce students to an engineering design process, tools to collect and analyze data, the science of aviation, materials and structures, and safety. Students will participate in real-world experiences such as designing, building and testing a pilot seat, kite, straw rocket and launcher, motor-powered rocket and a model glider.
This course builds on the foundation of Course 1 and engages students in applying the design process, using tools to collect and analyze data, exploring a deeper level of the science of aviation and discovering how quality control systems work in the aviation field. Students will work collaboratively in teams to design, build and test a wing; plot a course for a plane to take off and land; design, build and test a wing attachment system; test materials under stress; and design, build and test an electric-powered plane. Students will demonstrate their newly acquired knowledge and skills by presenting their innovative ideas, techniques and solutions to business and industry partners.
Pre-Requisite: Foundation of Aerospace Engineering
Aeronautics Engineering Applications is a project-based learning course is for students who have successfully completed Courses 1 and 2. Students will learn about systems such as flight control, remote-control vehicles and the virtual world. Students will learn to fly using flight simulators. They will work collaboratively to propose a shift from a VOR navigation system to a GPS system and determine the cost savings. In addition, students will develop rotor blades for helicopters and design and program an unmanned flying vehicle.
OR
Astronautics Engineering Applications: Students in this capstone course will focus on outer space and underwater applications. During the six projects, they will work collaboratively to design, build and test a laser communication system; develop a plan for space survivability in hostile environments; and utilize software to create a three-dimensional model of a satellite orbit and a team remote vehicle for underwater exploration. Depending on articulation agreements or state policy, students who successfully complete the course may be able to earn dual credit.
Pre-Requisite: Advanced Aerospace Technology
Aviation Technology
Grades 9-12 students are developing, and in many cases possess, a range of interests, aptitudes, and learning skills. Their interests, as well as their capacity and desire to learn, continue to be shaped by a myriad of environmental stimuli that include family, social, and other influences. Students who are successful in this cluster possess a variety of technical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills that are foundational to success in many career and life choices.
The Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics cluster learning environment utilizes a variety of physical space to stimulate development of effective cognitive and psychomotor skills. Students experience a wide range of hands-on activities based on authentic representations of expectations found in the workplace. Theory and concepts are taught in proportion to the need for strong application opportunities with emphasis on timely learning experiences that facilitate the transition to skills attainment. Safety, proper tool use, and adherence to procedures are integral components for all student learning experiences.
Course Sequence
The purpose of this one-credit course is to provide students with knowledge related to the theory of flight and aircraft operation. Additionally, students are introduced to various tools, hardware, and materials used to maintain aircraft. Safety and proper tool use are emphasized throughout the course. As part of this course, students construct various aircraft models to aid in the transition from theory to application of concepts.
This one-credit course provides students with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills related to aircraft instruments and hydraulic systems. Safety and proper tool use is emphasized throughout this course. Specific topics include computations skills, physical science principles, aircraft instrumentation theory and applications, the effect of atmosphere on instruments, theory and application of hydraulic systems, fixed and flexible hydraulic lines, wheel and tire maintenance, installation of aircraft hardware, and various materials and methods for maintaining instruments and hydraulic systems.
This one-credit course provides students with basic knowledge and skills related to aircraft systems rigging and weight and balance. Safety is emphasized throughout this course. Students learn the proper use of tools required for performing activities associated with this course. At the conclusion of this course students are able to safely apply techniques to rig and balance aircraft for maintenance activities.
All of our students are encouraged to join career and technical student organizations. These organizations are integral, co-curricular components of each career and technical education courses. These organizations serve as a means to enhance classroom instruction while helping students develop leadership abilities, expand workplace-readiness skills, and broaden opportunities for personal and professional growth.