Engineering & Robotics

Designing, building, and innovating for the future of technology.

Welcome to the PLTW Engineering & Robotics Pathway

The Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Engineering and Robotics program at Brooklyn Nexus High school engages students in real-world problem solving through hands-on projects, collaborative innovation, and technical design. From programming robots to creating 3D models, students gain a solid foundation in engineering principles, automation, and digital fabrication.
Our program is nationally certified through PLTW and integrates industry-relevant software and hardware, preparing students for both college-level engineering programs and technical careers.
Our program is nationally certified through PLTW and integrates industry-relevant software and hardware, preparing students for both college-level engineering programs and technical careers.

📘What Makes PLTW Unique?

  • Hands-On STEM Curriculum – Project-based learning with VEX robotics, 3D modeling, and engineering challenges.
  • Industry Certifications – Students prepare for AutoCAD User Certification and SolidWorks CSWA (Certified SolidWorks Associate) exam.
  • Microcontrollers & Automation – Use of Arduino, sensors, and code to build smart machines and prototypes.
  • College Credit & Articulation Opportunities – Select courses may be eligible for credit or advanced placement through university partners.

🎓College Credit & Articulation Opportunities

Students who complete the PLTW pathway may be eligible for credit or placement at participating engineering colleges. Placeholder partnerships include:

  •  NYC College of Technology (City Tech) – BS in Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) – PLTW credit articulation agreement
  •  SUNY Farmingdale – BS in Electrical Engineering Technology
  •  New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) – PLTW aligned credit policy
Course Sequence & Skills Covered

💼 Careers in Engineering, Robotics, and Design

Graduates of this pathway are prepared for college engineering programs and technical career opportunities across a range of fields.

Job Role Avg. U.S. Salary
Mechanical Engineering Technician

Build, test, and repair mechanical components

$58,000
CAD Designer/Drafter

Create technical drawings for manufacturing

$59,000
Robotics Technician

Maintain and troubleshoot robotic systems

$61,000
Automation Specialist

Design and program control systems

$75,000
Mechatronics Engineer

Integrate mechanical, electrical, and software systems

$90,000
Product Designer

Model and design new consumer or industrial products

$80,000
✔ Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry sources
Certifications Section

🧑‍🏫 Program Coursework & Tools

Students progress through a rigorous sequence of courses under PLTW’s Engineering curriculum model:

Course Core Tools
Introduction to Engineering Design (IED)
Students learn CAD modeling and engineering documentation.
AutoCAD SolidWorks
Principles of Engineering (POE)
Explores mechanical systems, forces, energy, and automation.
Arduino VEX Robotics
Digital Electronics (DE)
Focuses on circuit design, logic gates, sensors, and microcontrollers.
Arduino boards multimeters
Capstone Projects (optional)
Students design and prototype solutions to real-world problems.
3D printersCNC simulation
  • ✔ Course instruction is project-driven and takes place in Room 450D
  • ✔ All students complete lab-based activities and engineering notebooks
IT & Networking Careers

🏆 Certifications: CAD & Design Technology

PLTW Engineering students are prepared to take industry-recognized certifications that validate design and modeling skills:

Certification Platform Description
AutoCAD Certified User Autodesk Basic CAD drawing, layout, and modification skills
CSWA – Certified SolidWorks Associate Dassault Systèmes Demonstrates 3D modeling, assembly, and design competency
* AutoCAD User Certification
* SolidWorks CSWA Overview

🧩Work-Based Learning & Competitions

  • Participate in local and state VEX Robotics Competitions
  • Collaborative engineering challenges and STEM fairs
  • Internship opportunities in construction, design, and tech sectors
  • Mentorships with engineers, architects, and industry professionals

📥How to Join

The PLTW Engineering & Robotics Pathway begins in 10th grade and is open to students who:

  • Show interest in engineering, coding, robotics, or technology
  • Are eager to learn through experimentation and design
  • Want to build a portfolio of projects and skills for college or career

Visit Our School

Experience our school community firsthand. Schedule a visit to explore our campus, meet our staff, and learn more about the programs and opportunities available to our students.

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