Billy Mejia - CTE Teacher
Construction at NCTTHS is taking on a new direction this year as I lead the transition to a dynamic Maker Space. My class is designed to inspire creativity, problem-solving, and innovation while giving students hands-on experience with modern technology and tools.
We begin by exploring the history and impact of 3D printing and other maker technologies, learning how these advancements have transformed industries from engineering and architecture to medicine and small business. From there, students build skills in digital design and modeling with Fusion 360, practicing how to take an idea from concept to prototype. Throughout the process, they engage in multiple design iterations, reflecting the real-world practice of developing solutions through testing and revision.
I emphasize the complete design cycle in my class: brainstorming, sketching, digital modeling, prototyping, testing, and refining. By working through this process, students gain valuable skills in persistence, adaptability, and critical thinking. They also learn how to collaborate effectively, share feedback, and manage projects in a team setting.
Beyond technical skills, I connect students to the world of entrepreneurship. Together, we explore how ideas can evolve into real products, examining everything from marketing and branding to production and distribution. This entrepreneurial focus helps students see how their creative solutions can have practical, real-world impact.
To complete the experience, students present their final projects in a showcase, walking through both the creative and technical steps that brought their ideas to life. By the end of the class, they not only build tangible projects but also develop the confidence, mindset, and skills to continue innovating far beyond the classroom.
We begin by exploring the history and impact of 3D printing and other maker technologies, learning how these advancements have transformed industries from engineering and architecture to medicine and small business. From there, students build skills in digital design and modeling with Fusion 360, practicing how to take an idea from concept to prototype. Throughout the process, they engage in multiple design iterations, reflecting the real-world practice of developing solutions through testing and revision.
I emphasize the complete design cycle in my class: brainstorming, sketching, digital modeling, prototyping, testing, and refining. By working through this process, students gain valuable skills in persistence, adaptability, and critical thinking. They also learn how to collaborate effectively, share feedback, and manage projects in a team setting.
Beyond technical skills, I connect students to the world of entrepreneurship. Together, we explore how ideas can evolve into real products, examining everything from marketing and branding to production and distribution. This entrepreneurial focus helps students see how their creative solutions can have practical, real-world impact.
To complete the experience, students present their final projects in a showcase, walking through both the creative and technical steps that brought their ideas to life. By the end of the class, they not only build tangible projects but also develop the confidence, mindset, and skills to continue innovating far beyond the classroom.