Governor's Stem Academy

Engineering Drawing Design

Introduction to Engineering Design (PLTW)

In this foundation course in Project Lead the Way (PLTW), students use 3D computer modeling software as they learn the engineering-design process and solve design problems for which they develop, analyze, and create product models. This course is also in mechanical engineering. 

Principles of Engineering (PLTW)

In this Project Lead the Way (PLTW) course, students explore the engineering profession and the fundamental aspects of engineering problem-solving. Students study the historical and current impacts of engineering on society, including ethical implications. Mathematical and scientific concepts will be applied to fundamental engineering topics, including mechanics and electrical circuit theory

Architectural Drawing & Design

Students learn the principles of communicating architecture designs and increase their understanding of working drawings and construction techniques learned in Technical Drawing and Design. Experiences include residential and commercial building designs, rendering, model development, and structural detail developments. Students use computer-aided drawing and design (CADD) equipment and established standards or codes to prepare models for presentation. The course is especially beneficial to future architects, interior designers, or home builders. 

Advanced Drawing & Design

Students use graphic language for product design and technical illustration. They increase their understanding of drawing techniques learned in Technical Drawing and Design (8435/8434), Engineering Drawing and Design (8159), and Architectural Drawing and Design (8437/8492). Students research design-related fields while identifying the role of advanced drawing and design in manufacturing and construction industry processes. They apply the design process, analyze design solutions, reverse engineer products, create 3D solid models using computer-aided design (CAD), construct physical models, and create multimedia presentations of finished designs. Students will complete a work portfolio based on a chosen graphic project

Mechanical Engineering

Engineering Explorations

In Engineering Explorations I, students examine technology and engineering fundamentals to solve real-world problems. Students investigate engineering history, including major engineering accomplishments, and their effect on society. They also examine engineering specialty fields and their related careers. Students practice engineering fundamentals and apply the engineering design process through participation in hands-on engineering projects. Students communicate project-related information through presentations, proposals, and technical reports. 

Technical Drawing and Design

In this foundational course, students design, sketch, and make technical drawings, models, or prototypes of real design problems while learning the language of technical drawing and design. The course introduces the language of graphic communication to all science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students and is especially recommended for those planning a future in engineering and architecture.

Software Engineering

Software Engineering Essentials (PLTW)

Students will experience the major topics, big ideas, and computational thinking practices used by computing professionals to solve problems and create value for others. This course will empower students to develop computational thinking skills while building confidence that prepares them to advance to Computer Science Principles and Computer Science A.

Software Engineering (PLTW)

This Project Lead the Way course aims to develop students' computational thinking, generate excitement about career paths that utilize computing, and introduce professional tools that foster creativity and collaboration. Students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet. Projects and problems include app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation.

Engineering Practicum IV

This course will enable students to examine technology and engineering fundamentals related to solving real-world problems. Students examine ethics and intellectual property and design a practicum project, a culmination of knowledge and skill gained in the previous engineering courses. In addition, students continue to investigate engineering specialty fields and related careers to determine whether they are good candidates for postsecondary educational opportunities in engineering.

Cyber Security 

Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Cybersecurity affects every individual, organization, and nation. This course focuses on the evolving and 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. Exciting opportunities will be presented to use interactive current resources in the study of cybersecurity such as Virginia Cyber Range, Virginia Space Grant Consortium, and Cyber.org. Students will have the opportunity to prepare for success on related industry certifications aligned to the course content. 

All course include contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

Teacher: Roderick Davis

Class: Engineering/9-12 Lead Engineering Teacher

Years of Experience: 19

Roderick Davis has been teaching various Engineering classes at Richmond Technical Center since 2014. With a passion for Engineering/Architectural Design, he strives to create an engaging and supportive learning environment for all students.

He received his B.S. Degree in Industrial Technology/Architectural Drafting & Design from Virginia State University. Mr. Davis has obtained PLTW (Project Lead the Way) certifications in Principles of Engineering and Introduction to Engineering Design. He also has Industry certifications in Autodesk Fusion 360, Revit, Inventor, and SolidWorks. Mr. Davis has been an adjunct professor at University of Richmond for a decade.

In addition to teaching, Mr Davis has been the Musical Director for several West African Dance Companies in Richmond, VA. Along with providing music for these companies, he teaches West African percussion classes to his community. Mr. Davis has trained Capoeira (Brazilian Martial Arts) for 20 years and now has an academy in Charlottesville and Richmond. Mr Davis also provides community service through his  partnership with Streets Smartz Over Safety, as being the Lead Mentor for inner city youth.

Mr Davis is dedicated to preparing students for their future careers. He integrates real-world skills into the curriculum, focusing on specific skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving in engineering. He also emphasizes the importance of career exploration, internships, or connections with local businesses/organizations and universities to help students obtain a career or degree in various technology or engineering fields.

Teacher: Nuzelle Watson, Jr.(Retired)

Class: Introduction to Engineering Design & Engineering Practicum IV 

Years of Experience: 36

Mr. Watson has been teaching Technology/Engineering at RTC since 2004 before retiring in 2021. With a passion for teaching  technological skills, he strives to create a student centered  environment for all students.

He received his Bachelor of Science in Technology Education from Virginia Tech  and is certified in Building Trades and Project Lead the Way. He believes in the importance of dedication and commitment to excellence. 

He integrates real-world skills into the curriculum, focusing on Computer Aided Design and  Mr. Watson emphasizes the importance of enhancing personal development, leadership, and career opportunities in STEM through the participation in the Technology Student Association.

Teacher: Victor Cherry

Class: Software Engineering Essentials PLTW, Software Engineering PLTW, Engineering Exploration I

Years of Experience: 33

Mr. Cherry  has been teaching Software Engineering Essentials PLTW, and Software Engineering PLTW at Richmond Technical School  since 2015. With a passion for computer programming, he strives to create an engaging and supportive learning environment where all students can develop their logical thinking skills.

He received his Electrical Installation / Electrical Engineering Certificate  from Sir Arthur Community College. He  received his Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt from Virginia Commonwealth University. He is also Project Lead the Way certified to teach The PLTW curriculum.

Mr. Cherry is dedicated to preparing students for their future careers. He integrates real-world skills into the curriculum, focusing on gathering information, analyzing objectively, weighing options, and drawing conclusions. He also emphasizes the importance of participating in the various student activity organizations, Technology Student Association, to enhance personal development, develop leadership skills, and career exploration.