Students at Pinewood Preparatory School who might be thinking of pursuing an engineering degree in college—and possibly even a future career—now have a chance to get an early start.

Starting this year, the Engineering Diploma program exposes high school students to a variety of concepts, skills, and applications that, once completed, will provide a solid background for undergraduate study. It involves a sequence of college-level mathematics and science classes combined with specific courses in pre-engineering and technology, an internship, and a research/design project. “Each of these components is meant to deliver an innovative and top-quality pre-engineering curriculum while engaging students in hands-on, collaborative activities they’ll need to pursue engineering degrees and careers,” says Physics teacher Jim Brice.

The capstone is a semester-long research/design project that focuses on the development of a single product or idea. Faculty mentors help students identify their goal and may offer assistance throughout the term. This year, twelve students are trying to solve problems in their school and home environments. They include re-engineering the press box at the school stadium, re-designing elements in the baseball dugouts for storage/seating, designing and building a mobile art display, and creating a 3D model of the campus to help drive a Master Plan discussion

“We hope the program will grow and continue to inspire creativity and enthusiasm in students who are particularly drawn to this field,” says Mr. Brice. “Our faculty mentors are looking forward to future partnerships.”

On graduation day, a special diploma designation will be given to the newest program participants as they celebrate their accomplishments and look forward to putting those skills to good use in the years to come.