High School CTE Programs
RTC Promotional Video
RTC Program Offerings
- AGRICULTURE
- BUSINESS / INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
- COMMUNICATION ARTS
- CONSTRUCTION
- HEALTH SCIENCES
- LAW & PUBLIC SAFETY
- PERSONAL SERVICES & HOSPITALITY
- TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION
- TRANSPORTATION & MANUFACTURING
AGRICULTURE
Agriculture
Small Animal Care I, II
Small Animal Care I - Students learn how to care for and manage small animals, focusing on instructional areas in animal health, nutrition, management, reproduction, and evaluation. Course content also includes instruction in the tools, equipment, and facilities for small animal care, and provides activities to foster leadership development. Live animal handling may occur. FFA, SAE, or related student organization activities are encouraged.
Small Animal Care II - Students develop their skills in the training and grooming of companion animals, focusing on specific needs of various breeds. Instruction includes handling animals and grooming/caring for coats, as well as technical and maintenance functions related to animal health. Live animal handling will occur. The course also includes technical office-management instruction and affords students the opportunity to practice leadership skills. FFA, SAE, or related student organization activities are encouraged.
Certification available: National Association of Professional Pet Sitters (NAPPS)
NOTE: This course has specific state laws and regulations from a governing medical board or agency.
Veterinary Science I, II
Veterinary Science I - prepares students for postsecondary education and/or careers in veterinary medicine or related fields. Students develop their skills in anatomy, nutrition, medical terminology, sanitation, clinical exams, and handling animals. Live animal handling may occur. Course content also includes facility maintenance, and office functions, as well as safety practices. The National FFA Organization, Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE), or related student organization activities are encouraged.
Veterinary Science II - Students expand their knowledge of animal science and the care of animals, including animal structure and function, microbes and disease prevention, parasitology, and genetics and breeding. Students develop more advanced skills and techniques for assisting the veterinarian/technician in the following areas: performing first aid and surgery, applying aseptic techniques, performing technical functions, administering medication, handling death and dying, working with wildlife, and performing office functions. On-the-job clinical instruction coordinated by the instructor may be included in veterinary offices or animal clinics.
Certification available: Veterinary Medical Applications Certification
BUSINESS / INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Business /Information Technology
- Business Law/Legal Admin
- Office Admin/Medical Admin
- Entrepreneurship Ed/Advanced Entrepreneurship
- CyberSecurity Fundamentals/Systems Technology
Business Law/Legal Admin
Business Law/Legal Administration
Business Law - Students examine the foundations of the American legal system and learn the rights and responsibilities of citizens. Students gain practical knowledge and life skills by exploring economic and social concepts related to laws governing business and individuals. Focus areas include contracts, consumer protection, criminal law, tort law, international law, family/domestic law, employment law, cyber law, and careers in the legal profession. Students combine classroom instruction and supervised on-the-job training in an approved position with continuing supervision throughout the school year.
Legal Administration - Students explore various areas of law (e.g., civil, criminal, family, real estate, estate, and probate) while preparing for employment in the legal field. Students gain knowledge and skills in legal document preparation, office communications, legal terminology, client services, records management, financial records, and business ethics. Successful completion of this course may lead to an entry-level position in a law office, court office, law enforcement agency, corporate legal department, or to postsecondary education. Recommended prerequisite(s): Keyboarding course(s) or teacher-approved demonstration and documentation of touch keyboarding skills.
Certification Available: Micrsoft Office Specialist
Office Admin/Medical Admin
Office Administration/Medical Administration
Office Administration - Students develop and enhance skills in processing and managing information, data and financial functions while developing and improving communication skills and other vital competencies needed for successful employment as administrative support professionals. Students examine and employ the latest technology and software used in office systems. In addition, students study procedures involved with information processing, procurement, telecommunications, maintaining office systems, organizing and planning functions, supervising employees, and developing employability skills.
Recommended prerequisite(s): Keyboarding course(s) or teacher-approved demonstration and documentation of touch keyboarding skills
Certification available: Microsoft Office Specialist
Medical Administration - Students wishing to gain employment in the healthcare field may take this course to learn how to use medical terminology and apply administrative procedures necessary to be productive employees in a healthcare environment. Students will learn how to manage office activities, enhance communication and employability skills, identify legal and ethical issues in healthcare practices, and manage financial activities. Work-based learning opportunities are available for this course.
Recommended prerequisite(s): Keyboarding course(s) or teacher-approved demonstration and documentation of touch keyboarding skills.
Certification available: Medical Administrative Assistant
Entrepreneurship Ed/Advanced Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship - This course introduces students to the exciting world of creating, owning, and launching their own business. Students will learn concepts and techniques for planning an entrepreneurial venture, using design thinking and business model development. Students will learn about financial statements, marketing principles, sales and customer service, and basic economic principles for successful operation. (This course may be offered as a complement to an existing concentration sequence in any Career Cluster. In some instances, where noted, it may be combined with specific courses to create concentration sequences.)
Advanced Entrepreneurship - This course is designed for students who wish to concentrate on advanced strategies for entrepreneurship, building upon concepts introduced in Entrepreneurship (9093). The focus of the course is on development of a business plan and small business management. Students will establish, market, and maintain a business.
CyberSecurity Fundamentals/Systems Technology
Unavailable for 2021-2022.
Cybersecurity Fundamentals - Cybersecurity affects every individual, organization, and nation. This course focuses on the evolving and all-pervasive technological environment with an emphasis on securing personal, organizational, and national information. Students will be introduced to the principles of cybersecurity, explore emerging technologies, examine threats and protective measures, and investigate the diverse high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand career opportunities in the field of cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity Systems Technology - Students enter the world of computer technology and gain practical experience in assembling a computer system. Students will install, configure, and secure various operating systems. Students will troubleshoot computers and peripherals and use system tools and diagnostic software. They develop skills in computer networking and resource sharing. In addition, students explore the relationships between internal and external computer components. Upon successful completion of the course, students may qualify to take the CompTIA A+ certification exam.
COMMUNICATION ARTS
Communication Arts
TV & Media Production I, II, III
Television and Media Production I - In this course, students will engage in hands-on digital media production while using industry-standard equipment and software. They will learn how to work as media producers and explore careers in the dynamic industry of digital media production.
Television and Media Production II - This course builds upon knowledge and skills from Television and Media Production I. Students will generate fiction and non-fictional media content. Students will enhance their digital media production skills by entering the studio and control room and become proficient with industry-standard equipment and software. They put their knowledge of digital media production into action with use of sophisticated tools and equipment as they begin to develop their personal portfolios.
Graphic Imaging Technology I, II
Graphic Imaging Technology I - Introduces students to the graphic communications industry. Students gain an overview of digital file preparation, image capture, color theory, digital file output, press operations, and bindery operations. Students learn to practice workplace safety and develop skills in measurement, mathematical problem solving, interpersonal communication, and the job application process. Graphic imaging technology programs must be accredited by PrintED, administered by the Graphic Arts Education and Research Foundation (GAERF).
Graphic Imaging Technology II - Prepares students for a career in the graphic communications industry. Students gain knowledge and skills in digital file preparation and output. Graphic Imaging Technology programs must be accredited by PrintED, administered by the Graphic Arts Education and Research Foundation (GAERF).
CONSTRUCTION
Construction
Carpentry I, II, III
Carpentry I - is the building block for achieving high-level construction industry skills that can result in an exciting and lucrative career. With an emphasis on safety, students are taught to use hand and power tools, cut stock, apply construction mathematics, and interpret blueprints. Students will become proficient in identifying types of residential construction components to form foundations and frame walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, doors, and windows. All students will obtain the required OSHA 10 safety credential.
Carpentry II - leads to successful transition into postsecondary education for careers in carpentry and related fields, such as construction management, architecture, and others. Students are taught the safe use of hand and power tools common to the industry to complement their OSHA 10 safety credential earned in Carpentry I. Students will become proficient in assembling and installing various types of residential construction components that are current with industry standards, including rigging and job-estimating procedures, forming foundations, framing floors, walls, ceiling, roofs, trusses, roofing materials, stairs, exterior doors and windows, decks, and porches. Successfully passing this course leads to CTE program completion.
Carpentry III - is an advanced course that allows students to gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in construction skills. Students explore specialized areas in carpentry, such as building decks and porches, alternative framing, interior finishes, drywall installation and finishing, as well as energy efficiency and green technology. Exploration of licensure requirements and entrepreneurial opportunities are emphasized.
Industry Credential: NCCER Core Curriculum
Electricity I, II, III
Electricity I - Students develop fundamental electrical skills to help them prepare for a career in the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of residential, commercial, and industrial systems. Students will engage in hands-on activities in a lab setting. They will be introduced to residential wiring of houses and apartments; commercial wiring of retailers, schools, businesses, and hospitals; and industrial wiring of factories.
Electricity II - Students will continue to develop skills in the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems. Students will also study electrical theory and mathematical problems related to electricity, apply requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC) Book, select and install conductors, examine lighting, communication, and power systems, and work with conduit and raceways, panelboards, switchboards, grounding systems, and generators.
Electricity III - Through hands-on experiences, students continue building skills in the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems, with emphasis on industrial applications. They also study lighting fixtures, overcurrent protection, service equipment, motor controls, transformers, grounding, and the National Electrical Code (NEC) Book.
Industry Credential: NCCER Core Curriculum
Career Ready Assessment: SkillsUSA Residential Wiring
HVACR
Unavailable for 2021-2022.
HVACR I - Students are taught to professionally install, repair, and maintain the operating conditions of heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) systems. Students work with piping and tubing, study the principles of heat and electricity, install duct systems, and comply with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations. Successful completion of the two-course sequence may prepare students for a career as a HVACR technician.
HVACR II - This instructional program teaches students to professionally install, repair, and maintain the operating conditions of heating and cooling systems. Students also explore emerging technologies, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, energy conservation techniques, and systems with exempt and non-exempt refrigerants. Completion of this sequence will prepare students for employment in a variety of heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) occupations.
HEALTH SCIENCES
Health Sciences
- Introduction to Health & Medical Sciences; Medical Terminology
- Dental Careers I, II
- Nurse Aide I, II
- Pharmacy Technician I, II
- Sports Medicine I, II
- Emergency Medical Technician I, II
- Principles of the Biomedical Sciences (PLTW)
Introduction to Health & Medical Sciences; Medical Terminology
The following sequence of courses provides a foundation for the five health science programs at RTC: Dental Careers, Emergency Medical Technician, Nurse Aide, Pharmacy Technician, & Sports Medicine (Personal Trainer).
Introduction to Health & Medical Sciences
This course introduces the student to a variety of healthcare careers and develops basic skills required in all health and medical sciences. It is designed to help students understand the key elements of the U.S. healthcare system and to learn basic healthcare terminology, anatomy and physiology for each body system, pathologies, diagnostic and clinical procedures, therapeutic interventions, and the fundamentals of traumatic and medical emergency care. Throughout the course, instruction emphasizes safety, cleanliness, asepsis, professionalism, accountability, and efficiency within the healthcare environment. Students also begin gaining job-seeking skills for entry into the health and medical sciences field. In addition, instruction may include the basics of medical laboratory procedures, pharmacology fundamentals, biotechnology concepts, and communication skills essential for providing quality patient care.
Medical Terminology
Medical Terminology is designed to help students learn common medical terms essential for patient care. Topics are presented in logical order, beginning with each body system's anatomy and physiology and progressing through pathology, laboratory tests and clinical procedures, therapeutic interventions, and pharmacology. Students learn concepts, terms, and abbreviations for each topic.
Pathway to Healthcare Workforce
Dental Careers I, II
Students are introduced to the careers in dentistry, including dentist (general and specialists), hygienist, dental assistant, dental laboratory technician, and dental receptionist. Students practice and learn about many of the skills utilized in these professions while attaining all the skills necessary to become entry-level dental assistants. Study includes infection control and OSHA standards; anatomy and physiology; tooth morphology; oral histology; preventive dentistry; applied psychology; effective communication; office administration and management; use of dental software; operative dentistry techniques; and dental materials/laboratory skills.
Recommended prerequisite(s): Biology, Chemistry, Keyboarding 6150/6151, and Introduction to Health and Medical Sciences 8302
Dental Careers II
Units of study include medical emergencies, coronal polishing, oral pathology, dental roentgenology, nutrition, schedule IV drugs and pharmacology, and advanced laboratory techniques. In addition to attending classes for part of the week, students have the opportunity to participate in internships at local private dental offices and public health dental facilities, where they participate in all phases of dental care delivery. During the program, students are eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board Inc. (DANB) Radiation Health and Safety; Anatomy, Morphology, and Physiology; and Infection Control (ICE) exams. Students who pass are qualified to work in entry-level dental assistant I and dental receptionist positions. After two years in the field full-time, graduates of the program are eligible to take the national examination to become a Certified Dental Assistant. Many graduates choose to continue their dental education at community colleges and universities.
Nurse Aide I, II
Nurse Aide I offered as an occupational preparation course beginning at the 11th-grade level, emphasizes the study of nursing occupations as related to the health care system. Students study normal growth and development, simple body structure and function, and medical terminology and are introduced to microbes and disease. They receive elementary skill training in patient-nursing assistant relationships; taking and recording of vital signs; cardiopulmonary resuscitation; and bathing, feeding, dressing, and transporting of patients in hospitals and nursing homes. Limited on-the-job instruction in nursing homes and hospitals is part of the course. This course can be used as an introduction to practical nursing or to prepare the student for Nurse Aide II so that all competencies for a certified nursing assistant are met.
Recommended prerequisite(s): Introduction to Health and Medical Sciences 8302
Nurse Aide II is an occupational preparation course, emphasizing advanced skill training in areas such as catheter care, range of motion, bowel and bladder training, care of the dying, selected procedures for maternal and infant care, and admission and discharge procedures. Students learn diseases and body systems as related to advanced clinical care of the acute medical-surgical patient, the chronically ill, and the elderly. On-the-job instruction in a licensed nursing home is part of the course. Upon completion of the nurse aide program, the student is eligible to take the nurse aide certification exam that leads to employment as a certified nurse aide in hospitals and nursing homes. (Dual Enrollment College Credit Option)
Pharmacy Technician I, II
Pharmacy Technician I/II
This certificate program is designed to provide students with the basic skills and knowledge to begin work as a pharmacy technician. The coursework will fulfill the requirements of the Board of Pharmacy and prepare students to take either the state examination or the national examination administered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. Trained, experienced pharmacy technicians who can demonstrate the right skills and knowledge should be able to pursue many exciting and respected career options or postsecondary study in the pharmacy field. (Dual Enrollment College Credit Option)
Licensed by: Approved Pharmacy Technician Training Program
Program Director: Tiffany S. Threatt-Pierce, CPhT
Local Partners
- Walgreens Pharmacy
- Riverside Health Systems
- Bon Secours Hospital
Sports Medicine I, II
Sports Medicine I - In this course, students earn a certification in First Aid/CPR/AED. The course introduces students to topics such as human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, biomechanics, medical terminology, injuries and illnesses, and legal and ethical issues in sports medicine. Students also examine prospective careers in the sports medicine field. Upon successful completion of this course, students are eligible to take Sports Medicine II and pursue certification as a personal trainer.
Recommended prerequisite(s): Introduction to Health and Medical Sciences 8302
Sports Medicine II - This course builds upon basic knowledge acquired in Sports Medicine I on topics such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, exercise program design, and injury prevention, assessment, treatment, and management. Students prepare for a career in sports medicine, including completing an internship. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be eligible to take the National Academy of Sports Medicine-Certified Personal Trainer (NASM-CPT) exam.
Local Partners
- Bon Secours Health System
- VCU Sports Medicine
Industry Credential: NASM Personal Trainer
Emergency Medical Technician I, II
Unavailable for 2021-2022
Emergency Medical Technician I
Emergency Medical Technician II
The tasks for this course represent the National and Virginia Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Educational Standards. Students build on their knowledge and skills for providing basic life support by focusing on the areas of EMS operations, medical emergencies, and management of special patient populations. Supervised field experience that includes at least 10 patient contacts outside of school hours is required. Successful completion of this second course in the sequence will earn the student CTE completer status. Students must complete a minimum of 85 percent of the didactic and lab aspects of the course, per 12VAC5-31-1501 in the Code of Virginia.
Successful completion of all course requirements and instructor endorsement may lead to eligibility to take the Virginia State Psychomotor Exam and the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) cognitive exam. Students must meet the requirements of the Functional Position Description for the Basic Life Support Provider (refer to EMS.TR.14B and 12VAC5-31-1501 in the Code of Virginia).
NOTE: Students must be at least 16 years old prior to the first day of EMT instruction. All students will need to undergo a criminal background check that includes fingerprinting and drug screening.
This course has specific state laws and regulations from a governing medical board or agency. Please contact the Virginia Department of Education, Office of Career and Technical Education Services prior to implementing this course. All inquiries may be sent to cte@doe.virginia.gov.
Principles of the Biomedical Sciences (PLTW)
Principles of the Biomedical Sciences
In this specialization course for Project Lead the Way (PLTW), students are taught concepts of forensic inquiry, DNA and inheritance, and the function of human body systems, exploring the body through diseases, such as those leading to diabetes and heart, sickle cell, and infectious diseases. Students also explore medical interventions, postmortem examination, bioprocessing, bioinformatics, and concepts of microbiology and genetic engineering.
LAW & PUBLIC SAFETY
Law & Safety Services
Criminal Justice I, II
CRIMINAL JUSTICE I
Students are introduced to law, public safety, corrections, and security practices. Students examine contemporary issues in the criminal justice system and explore crime scene investigation, criminal investigation, court procedures, policing, and juvenile justice. This course provides a foundation for careers as lawyers, as forensics specialists, and as law enforcement and corrections officers. (Dual Enrollment College Credit Option)
CRIMINAL JUSTICE II
Students apply knowledge learned in Criminal Justice I through practical scenarios involving crime scene investigation, criminal investigation, and crisis intervention. Students explore trends in in correctional standards and in identifying and preventing terror threats. This course prepares students for careers as lawyers, forensics specialists, and law enforcement and corrections officers. (Dual Enrollment College Credit Option)
Local Partners
Criminal Justice Video (Dispatcher Call)
Emergency Medical Telecommunications
Emergency Medical Telecommunications is designed to develop entry-level skills needed in a telecommunication environment for rescue, fire, and police. The course provides the beginning tele-communicator with an understanding of situations encountered in an emergency communications environment. Upon completion, the student will be able to: summarize issues involving the telecommunication’s role and responsibilities as a member of health and public safety environment; summarize issues involving available resources to a tele-communicator; the importance of maintaining confidentiality, liability and legal issues involving emergency tele-communicators and their agencies; summarize the process of stress management for inside and outside a communications department/center.
Students may obtain industry certification: Certified Emergency Telecommunicator Examination
This course is currently paired with Criminal Justice I or Introduction to Health and Medical Sciences..
PERSONAL SERVICES & HOSPITALITY
Personal Services & Hospitality
Cosmetology I, II, III
Cosmetology I - In this introductory course, students study hair, skin, and nails and their related care. Students are grounded in theory as they prepare to practice procedures in a clinical lab setting or classroom, using mannequins for manipulative skill practice. The first-year course emphasizes personal safety, professionalism, and sanitation and disinfection of equipment and facilities. Students develop skills in shampooing and conditioning hair, as well as styling and cutting hair. They are introduced to chemical texture services and develop skills in manicure and pedicure procedures.
Cosmetology II - In this continuing course, students build on their theoretical foundation of general sciences and practices in cosmetology to increase proficiency in hair cutting and styling on live models, with attention to professionalism, client consultation, safety, and infection control. Students are trained in safe chemical processes related to permanent waves, relaxers, lightening, and coloring hair. In addition, students learn to care for skin, hands, and feet, developing experience in providing facials, manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements. Students will be introduced to a business management unit with a focus on managing the salon.
Cosmetology III - In this advanced course, students build on their theoretical foundation of general sciences and practices in cosmetology to increase proficiency in hair cutting and styling on live models, with attention to professionalism, client consultation, safety, and infection control. Students are trained in safe chemical processes related to chemical texture services and advanced hair coloring techniques. They also develop artistic skills with wigs and hair additions. In addition, students learn to care for skin, hands, and feet, developing experience in providing facials, manicures, pedicures, and nail enhancements. An advanced business management unit focuses on managing the salon. Competency completion prepares the student for the Virginia State Licensing Exam. Students can combine classroom instruction and supervised on-the-job training in an approved position or internship with continuing supervision throughout the school year.
Master Barber I, II, III
Master Barber I - Barbering is the study of hair, scalp, and skin. Students study and prepare in a clinical lab setting, using mannequins and live models for manipulative practice. The program emphasizes safety and sanitation, communication, and management skills. Related areas of study include psychology, ethics, and professional image. Competency completions prepare the students to work or apprentice in a local barber shop or beauty salon.
Master Barber II - Students apply their knowledge of barbering skills in a clinical lab setting, using mannequins and live models for manipulative practice. The program emphasizes safety and sanitation, communication skills, and management of a barber shop or beauty salon. Related areas of study include psychology, ethics, and professional image. Competency completions prepare the students for the Virginia state licensing exam.
Master Barber III - In this advanced course, students build on their theoretical foundation of general sciences and practices in barbering to increase proficiency in hair cutting and styling on live models, with attention to professionalism, client consultation, safety, and infection control. Students are trained in safe chemical processes related to chemical texture services and advanced hair coloring techniques. They also develop artistic skills with wigs and hair additions. An advanced business management unit focuses on managing the shop. Competency completion prepares the student for the Virginia State Licensing Exam. Students can combine classroom instruction and supervised on-the-job training in an approved position or internship with continuing supervision throughout the school year.
Barbering students must satisfy a minimum of 840 hours of instruction in a two- or three-year coherent sequence of courses to be eligible to take the Board for Barbers and Cosmetology licensing examination. Upon successful completion of the program, students may earn the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology license. For more information, see Superintendent’s Memo 075-16 and Superintendent’s Memo 072-17.
Culinary Arts I, II
Culinary Arts I provides students with a foundational understanding of the food service industry and opportunities to build technical skills in food preparation and service. Students examine basic rules of kitchen safety and sanitation, of purchasing and receiving, and of fundamental nutrition. The curriculum incorporates math and science in culinary applications.
Recommended prerequisite: Introduction to Culinary Arts 8249 / 8250
Culinary Arts II students continue to acquire a comprehensive knowledge of the food service industry while refining their technical skills. Students apply kitchen safety and sanitation, nutritional principles, and advanced food-preparation techniques. Students complete work-based learning in venues such as the a la carte kitchen, the dining room, and catered functions.
The curriculum continues to place a strong emphasis on science and mathematics knowledge and skills, critical thinking, practical problem-solving, and entrepreneurial opportunities within the field of culinary arts.
RTC Bistro
In the news:
Cooking up skills, dollars for RPS culinary program
(Richmond Free Press, 3/13/2020) Call it an eye-opening experience for Nicholas Pollard, Jaquan Washington, TéAnna Warren and six other high school seniors in Richmond Public Schools’ culinary program at the Richmond Technical Center. For more than three hours last Sunday, the students shadowed and worked with several chefs preparing dishes to be featured at a benefit dinner for the culinary program held Monday night at Perch restaurant in the West End.
TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION
Technology Education
- Engineering & Technology (including Architecture & Computer Science)
- Energy & Power/Renewable Energy
Engineering & Technology (including Architecture & Computer Science)
In this career pathway, students apply engineering and technical concepts to develop solutions for problems that exist throughout a broad range of fields from building bridges to flying airplanes to working in the medical industry. Students take courses to prepare them for technical or professional programs of higher education, such as STEM careers, engineering or architecture.
Consistent with their abilities, interests, and educational needs, students completing a technology education program will achieve the following goals:
- Comprehend the dynamics of technology, including its development, impact, and potential.
- Employ the technological processes of problem-solving, creating and designing.
- Analyze the behavior of technological systems and subsystems, including the tools, materials, processes, energy, time, information, and people involved in systems.
- Apply scientific principles, engineering concepts, and technological systems in the processes of technology.
- Discover and develop personal interests and abilities related to a wide variety of technology-oriented careers.
Courses at RTC:
- Introduction to Engineering Design (PLTW)*
- Principles of Engineering (PLTW)*
- Computer Science Essentials (PLTW)*
- Computer Science Principles (PLTW)*
- Architectural Drawing and Design
- Advanced Drawing and Design
- Engineering Explorations
- Engineering Practicum (Year 4 STEM Academy students)
*PLTW (Project Lead the Way (national curriculum)
Industy credentials: Autodesk Certified User (Inventor, Fusion 360, & Revit)
Energy & Power/Renewable Energy
Energy & Power - In this course, students analyze energy sources and explore the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The course provides math, science, and technical writing skills through hands-on application.
Renewable Energy - Renewable energy sources are steadily becoming more important in the global economy as nations strive to replace fossil fuels with eco-friendly power. In this course, students will explore select renewable energy technologies, gain hands-on experience in their design and function.
Sample Learning Modules:
- Wind Energy
- Solar Energy
- Small Wind and Solar PV Installation
- Click below for careers in energy:
TRANSPORTATION & MANUFACTURING
Transportation & Manufacturing Services
- Auto Body Technology I, II, II
- Automotive Technology I, II
- Motorsports Technology I, II
- Welding I, II, III
Auto Body Technology I, II, II
Auto Body Technology I - In the global automobile collision repair industry, there is a growing demand for qualified auto body technicians. In this course, students are taught damage analysis, estimating, customer service, non-structural analysis, damage repair, and welding. Students work with a variety of materials, using metal finishing and body filling techniques to prepare surfaces and repair panels. Students who successfully complete this program sequence may be eligible to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification examinations. Auto Body Technology I is closely aligned with the 2016 ASE Education Foundation collision repair and refinish program standards.
Auto Body Technology II - In the global automobile collision repair industry, there is a growing demand for qualified auto body technicians. In this course, students explore painting and refinishing techniques that include surface preparation, spray gun and related equipment operation, paint mixing, matching, and applying, and final vehicle detailing. Students who successfully complete this program sequence may be eligible to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification examinations. Auto Body Technology II is closely aligned with the 2016 ASE Education Foundation collision repair and refinish program standards.
Auto Body Technology III - This course allows students to apply knowledge and skills learned in Auto Body Technology I and II. This course may also be used as a capstone course in which students may perfect their auto body skills and move toward employment in the industry. Students who successfully complete this program will be prepared to take an industry recognized certification examination and will be prepared for postsecondary education opportunities. Auto Body Technology III is closely aligned with the 2016 Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Education Foundation collision repair and refinish program standards.
Note: Legislation enacted in the 2011 Virginia General Assembly (HB 1493) and amended in 2012 (HB 1108) requires where there is a national industry certification for career and technical education instructional personnel or programs for automotive technology, the Board of Education must make such certification mandatory. The provisions of this act shall become effective July 1, 2013. To comply with the requirements, all auto body technology programs must be ASE Education Foundation accredited and the instructors must be certified by the National Institute for ASE.
Automotive Technology I, II
Automotive Technology I - In this course, students explore, handle, and perform basic functions in engine repair, automatic transmission and transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering systems, and brakes. Students who successfully complete the Automotive Technology program may be eligible to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification examination. The ASE Student Certification is the first step in building a career as a service professional in the automotive industry. Automotive Technology I and II are closely aligned with the 2017 ASE Education Foundation automobile program standards for Maintenance and Light Repair (MLR).
For every task in this course, the following safety requirement must be strictly enforced: Comply with personal and environmental safety practices associated with clothing; eye protection; hand tools; power equipment; proper ventilation; and the handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals/materials in accordance with local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations.
Automotive Technology II - In this course, students build upon their basic knowledge of automotive technology, exploring more advanced tasks in engine repair, automatic transmission and transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering systems, and brakes. They also learn about electrical, electronic, and HVAC systems in automobiles. Upon successful completion of the course, students may be eligible to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification examination. Automotive Technology I and II are closely aligned with the 2017 ASE Education Foundation automobile program standards for Maintenance and Light Repair (MLR).
For every task in this course, the following safety requirement must be strictly enforced: Comply with personal and environmental safety practices associated with clothing; eye protection; hand tools; power equipment; proper ventilation; and the handling, storage, and disposal of chemicals/materials in accordance with local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations.
Note: Legislation enacted in the 2011 Virginia General Assembly (HB 1493) and amended in 2012 (HB 1108) requires where there is a national industry certification for career and technical education instructional personnel or programs for automotive technology, the Board of Education must make such certification mandatory. The provisions of this act shall become effective July 1, 2013. To comply with the requirements, all auto body technology programs must be ASE Education Foundation accredited and the instructors must be certified by the National Institute for ASE.
Motorsports Technology I, II
Motorsports Technology I - provides a foundation in the principles of race car fabrication and all facets of the racing industry. Technical aspects of the course include skill development in vehicle assembly using specialty tools and welding. Students explore the motorsports technology industry and identify careers in the field.
Motorsports Technology II - further develops students' skills in race car fabrication as they explore the motorsports technology industry. Students gain experience in chassis preparation, vehicle assembly, and engine assembly and disassembly. Additional focus areas include racing protocol and regulatory compliance in the motorsports field.
Welding I, II, III
Welding I - is required by a wide variety of industries—anywhere fusible materials and high heat are needed to manufacture, repair, or alter tools and products. Professional welders are in high demand and can earn accordingly. Students in Welding I are taught to use manual welding, cutting, and electrical arc welding processes to fabricate and join metal parts according to diagrams, blueprints, and specifications. Students will also learn all safety-related practices and techniques, including earning the OSHA 10 card.
Welding II - teaches advanced welding students how to fine-tune their craft and to perform welds in various positions, using multiple welding processes. Students prepare to pass relevant industry certifications. Welding is required by a wide variety of industries—anywhere fusible materials and high heat are needed to manufacture, repair, or alter products. Professional welders are in high-demand and can earn accordingly.
Welding III - This welding capstone course teaches the industry’s emerging technologies and how to demonstrate gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) and shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) pipe tests. Students are prepared to earn relevant industry credentials toward employment in production or manufacturing facilities.
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RPS High School Program of Studies
Every RPS high school offers a course of study that enables students to meet the graduation requirements for the Advanced Studies or Standard Diploma while also providing opportunities to explore coursework beyond those requirements.
Access the guide for 2021-22
Access the guide for 2022-23