Manufacturing & Engineering

The Manufacturing & Engineering (M&E) CTE gives students hands-on experience in design, technology, and systems maintenance while supporting the real operational needs of the school.

Students act as the school’s maintenance, repair, and innovation team, working on authentic projects that combine problem-solving, technical learning, and creativity.

From conducting energy audits and performing electrical checks to learning welding and 3D design, M&E students gain exposure to multiple engineering and trade pathways — while taking responsibility for real work within the building.

Daily Activities

Students in Manufacturing & Engineering complete a balance of classroom learning, technical practice, and hands-on facility work.

Their typical responsibilities include:

Inspecting systems such as lighting, outlets, vents, and classroom machinery to ensure safety and efficiency.
Performing minor maintenance and supporting the Carpentry & Trade Skills (CATS) team with facility repairs and improvements.
Conducting energy audits, recording lighting and HVAC data, and recommending ways to conserve electricity and reduce costs.
Operating the school’s 3D printer to design and produce replacement parts, organizational tools, and prototypes for other CTE departments.
Practicing virtual welding using two high-tech simulators that allow students to safely explore real welding techniques and skills.
Collaborating with Carpentry & Trade Skills on projects that combine electrical, structural, or mechanical systems.
Supporting building inspections by checking emergency lights, exit signs, and alarm functions.
Managing work orders for minor maintenance and documenting completed tasks in the school’s facility log.

Every activity reinforces real-world technical skills while promoting teamwork, safety, and accountability.

Student Job Roles

The M&E CTE operates as a professional technical department with clearly defined roles that reflect industry positions.

Manager – Assigns and tracks projects, ensures safety procedures, and leads team meetings.
Assistant Manager – Logs job completions, maintains materials inventory, and assists in tool management.
Electrical Systems Assistant – Checks outlets, lighting, cords, and power systems for functionality and safety.
Clean Energy Analyst – Conducts building energy audits and reports findings to administration.
Robotics & Automation Technician – Builds and programs classroom robots; helps test and maintain mechanical systems.
Virtual Welding Technician – Practices welding techniques using virtual welding simulators; learns safety and precision through digital scoring systems.
3D Printing Engineer – Designs, prints, and installs parts or tools that improve classroom function and efficiency.
Safety Compliance Officer – Conducts safety checks, ensures PPE is used correctly, and verifies workshop readiness.
Maintenance Operations Lead – Coordinates with the CATS team for larger building or equipment repairs.

Curriculum & Skills Focus

The M&E curriculum integrates WV Career Exploration standards with Porter’s Academy’s Manufacturing, Engineering, and Energy Systems Standards to give students both technical depth and workplace readiness.

Core Curriculum Areas:

Engineering Design Process
Virtual Welding Safety & Technique
Electrical Circuits and Power Systems
Robotics and Automation
3D Design and Printing
Clean Energy: Solar, Wind, and Gas
Preventive Maintenance and Systems Inspection
Workplace Communication and Collaboration

Highlighted Projects & Lessons:

Virtual Welding Practice and Performance Tracking
Clean Energy Analyst: Conducting a School Energy Audit
3D Printing for Practical Repairs and School Improvements
Electrical Systems Assistant: Power & Lighting Safety Checks
Safety Compliance Officer: Emergency Systems Inspection
Robotics Technician: Design, Build, and Program a Classroom Robot

What Makes It Different

Most middle schools introduce engineering concepts through models or simulations — but at Porter’s Academy, students actually operate as the school’s technical department.

They’re responsible for real maintenance, energy tracking, and innovation.

If a vent needs cleaned, a 3D-printed part is required, or the emergency lighting needs tested, the Manufacturing & Engineering team handles it.

The addition of virtual welders and 3D printing technology makes this program one of the most advanced middle school CTE offerings in the region — providing students with early, safe access to professional-level technical experiences.

This program not only builds engineering and trade skills but also teaches problem-solving, safety, and innovation — empowering students to take pride in building, maintaining, and improving their own environment.

“Students don’t just study engineering — they power the school that runs on it.”