Article

Linking Technology Education in Rural Schools in North Central Idaho to Manufacturing

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Abstract

In 2010, Clearwater Economic Development Association (CEDA), Valley Vision and Northwest Intermountain Manufacturers Association (NIMA) collaborated with Lewis-Clark State College and the University of Idaho to link technology education and students to local businesses in rural North Central Idaho. This project was funded by a National Science Foundation (NSF) Advanced Technology Education (ATE) grant #1104078. The NSF ATE initiative arose directly from consultations with manufacturers to identify entry-level employee skills urgently required in the region. The technology skill focus for this project was entry-level Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) technicians due to manufacturers’ indications of this as an area of great need. This article describes major accomplishments of this project which includes a job analysis; development of multiple resources for teachers; professional development of math, science, and technology education teachers; a student showcase; a mentoring program; and establishment of a workforce development council.

Keywords: CADD technicians, mentoring, STEM reflective guides, workforce development council, rural manufacturing, professional development

How to Cite:

Dixon, R. A. & Stricklin, L. S., (2015) “Linking Technology Education in Rural Schools in North Central Idaho to Manufacturing”, The Journal of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering 31(1).