Pre-Engineering and Project Lead the Way in West Virginia
West Virginia's Pre-Engineering pathway provides rigorous STEM preparation for engineering careers and further education. Strong engineering programs at WVU and Marshall support pathway success.
Students learn engineering design, computer-aided design (CAD), physics, and problem-solving. Projects use Project Lead the Way (PLTW) curriculum with real-world engineering challenges.
Graduates pursue engineering degrees at WVU, Marshall, or other universities. Advanced students may enter engineering apprenticeships or technician roles. STEM knowledge prepares students for diverse technical careers.
Pre-Engineering and Project Lead the Way at a Glance
4
Courses
8
Credentials
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Career Paths
State Standards & Framework
West Virginia's pre-engineering standards prepare students for engineering education and careers. The framework covers engineering design, CAD, and STEM fundamentals.
Curriculum includes PLTW courses covering engineering principles, CAD, and problem-solving. Assessment includes design projects, PLTW certifications, and demonstrated engineering competencies.
Typical Course Sequence
| Course |
|---|
| Introduction to Engineering and Design (PLTW) |
| Principles of Engineering (PLTW) |
| Civil Engineering and Architecture (PLTW) |
| Advanced Engineering Design |
Industry Certifications & Credentials
- ✓CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)
- ✓Microsoft Office Specialist - Excel
- ✓IC3 Digital Literacy Certification
- ✓NOCTI Engineering Technology
- ✓OSHA 10-Hour General Industry
- ✓FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
- ✓TRUST (Recreational UAS Safety Test)
- ✓Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA)
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: $54,910 - $81,360
Adjusted for cost of living: $61,167
Civil Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $62,410 - $113,730
Adjusted for cost of living: $98,251
Mechanical Engineer
ExperiencedSalary range: $82,720 - $112,690
Adjusted for cost of living: $112,075
Engineering Manager
ExperiencedSalary range: $118,790 - $171,530
Adjusted for cost of living: $160,187
Work-Based Learning Opportunities
Students intern at engineering firms, manufacturing companies, and WVU/Marshall engineering departments throughout West Virginia.
Career & Technical Student Organization
Students in this pathway can participate in SkillsUSA, gaining leadership experience and competing in career-related events.
How Sage Helps West Virginia CTE Programs
AI-Powered Curriculum
Generate standards-aligned lesson plans in minutes, not months
West Virginia Standards Built In
Pre-loaded with West Virginia's CTE standards and frameworks
Teacher Customization
Teachers personalize content while maintaining standards alignment
Ongoing Updates
Curriculum stays current as West Virginia standards and industry needs evolve
Related Pathways in West Virginia
Engineering Technology
West Virginia's Engineering Technology pathway develops applied engineering and technical skills. The state's manufacturing and infrastructure sectors need skilled engineering technologists. Students learn CAD, technical drawing, manufacturing processes, and equipment operation. Hands-on projects include designing and manufacturing components. Graduates work as engineering technicians, technical support specialists, or manufacturing engineers. Many continue to four-year engineering technology programs. Some pursue apprenticeships leading to professional engineering credentials.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics)Mechanical Engineering/Manufacturing
West Virginia's Mechanical Engineering/Manufacturing pathway introduces students to engineering design, CAD, and manufacturing processes essential for modern industry. The state's manufacturing base, particularly in automotive and industrial equipment, creates strong career opportunities. Students learn computer-aided design (CAD), mechanical systems, thermodynamics, and manufacturing processes. Projects focus on real-world design challenges and production optimization. Graduates work as mechanical technicians, manufacturing engineers, CAD designers, or production supervisors. Many continue to WVU's College of Engineering, Marshall University, or other four-year engineering programs. Others enter apprenticeships leading to Professional Engineer licensure.
Advanced ManufacturingSTEM Pathway
West Virginia's STEM Pathway provides comprehensive science and technology education for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Strong STEM skills support advancement in virtually all technical fields. Students learn scientific method, data analysis, technology applications, and mathematical modeling. Projects integrate multiple STEM disciplines with real-world applications. Graduates pursue STEM careers in engineering, technology, healthcare, and science fields. Many continue to four-year STEM programs at universities. Internships support readiness for advanced positions.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics)Ready to Build Pre-Engineering and Project Lead the Way Programs at Scale?
See how Sage can help you create standards-aligned curriculum for Pre-Engineering and Project Lead the Way in West Virginia.