Missouri's Engineering Technology pathway introduces students to engineering principles and problem-solving through project-based learning. The program covers mechanical, electrical, civil, and computer engineering concepts while emphasizing design thinking, prototyping, and testing processes used by professional engineers.
Students use computer-aided design (CAD) software, 3D printers, robotics kits, and other engineering tools to design and build solutions to authentic problems. Many programs implement Project Lead The Way (PLTW) curriculum or similar engineering design frameworks that guide students through the engineering design process.
Missouri's diverse engineering employers—from Boeing and Emerson to hundreds of smaller engineering firms—provide mentorship and internship opportunities. The pathway prepares students for engineering degree programs while also developing problem-solving and technical skills valuable in many technical careers.
Engineering Technology at a Glance
4
Courses
8
Credentials
5
Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
Missouri's Engineering Technology pathway aligns with the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA) Standards for Technological and Engineering Literacy. Programs implementing PLTW follow established PLTW standards and curriculum. All programs must meet DESE's Career Education Standards and emphasize STEM integration, preparing students for postsecondary engineering programs.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course | Code |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Engineering Design | ENG101 |
| Principles of Engineering | ENG201 |
| Digital Electronics | ENG301 |
| Engineering Design and Development | ENG401 |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
- ✓FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
- ✓TRUST (Recreational UAS Safety Test)
- ✓Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA)
- ✓Autodesk Certified User - Inventor
- ✓Autodesk Certified User - AutoCAD
- ✓Unity Certified User - Programmer
- ✓CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)
Career Opportunities
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Growth projections from BLS Employment Projections (2023-2033). Cost-of-living adjustment uses BEA Regional Price Parities (2023). Entry-level salaries reflect the 25th percentile; experienced salaries reflect the median.
Engineering Technician
Entry LevelSalary range: $58,740 - $101,380
Adjusted for cost of living: $64,015
CAD Designer
Entry LevelSalary range: $52,160 - $76,370
Adjusted for cost of living: $56,844
Manufacturing Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $77,690 - $117,830
Adjusted for cost of living: $104,196
Quality Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $66,730 - $119,020
Adjusted for cost of living: $101,373
Mechanical Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $77,040 - $108,270
Adjusted for cost of living: $100,142
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Internships with engineering firms and manufacturing companies. Mentorship from professional engineers. Participation in robotics competitions (FIRST Robotics, VEX). Summer research opportunities at universities.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in Technology Student Association (TSA), SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps Missouri CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
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Missouri Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with Missouri's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as Missouri standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in Missouri
Related Glossary Terms
CTE Pathways
CTE Pathways are structured sequences of courses within a Career Cluster that prepare students for a specific group of related occupations. Pathways combine academic and technical instruction, providing a clear roadmap from introductory courses through advanced, specialized training aligned with industry standards and postsecondary opportunities.
ProgrammaticStandards Alignment
Standards alignment in CTE refers to the process of ensuring that curriculum, instruction, and assessments directly connect to and address state-adopted CTE standards, academic standards, and industry-recognized competencies. Proper alignment ensures students develop the specific knowledge and skills their state requires for career readiness.
ProgrammaticWork-Based Learning
Work-Based Learning (WBL) encompasses a range of educational strategies that connect classroom instruction with real workplace experiences. Activities include internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, clinical rotations, and cooperative education, all designed to help CTE students apply technical skills in authentic industry settings.
ProgrammaticCareer and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs)
Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) are national organizations that provide CTE students with opportunities for leadership development, competitive events, community service, and career preparation. Recognized CTSOs include DECA, FBLA, FFA, HOSA, SkillsUSA, and TSA, each serving students in specific career cluster areas.
ProgrammaticReady to Build Engineering Technology Programs at Scale?
See how Sage can help you create standards-aligned curriculum for Engineering Technology in Missouri.