They are given a packet of information and a time frame for completion and are responsible for doing the research, completing the required academic and technical activities and getting teachers to sign off on portions of the project. The projects combine concepts and activities from language arts, higher-level mathematics, social studies and drafting. Students and evaluators receive a copy of the presentation guidelines, including a six-point evaluation scale. Design and complete a full set of drawings for a commercial or residential building. They also learn to manage time, materials and resources while rotating through a series of academy leadership positions.
Teachers select one senior student as academy leader for the year.
The honor is based on academic achievement and leadership ability. The other seniors are group leaders, while juniors and some sophomores serve as team leaders. Each team member has duties to perform. Summer jobs and school-year internships connect students to the workplace. Eight students were placed in six drafting and manufacturing companies during the past year.