Technical Preparation/Career Preparation is a course of study in local public schools, leading to employment upon graduating from high school or to postsecondary training and education.

Students pursuing Advanced Academic and Academic diploma curricula may choose a Tech Prep endorsement as an option. Those pursuing a Standard diploma are required to enroll in a Tech/Career Prep course of study.

Examples of curricula programs are Precision Machining Technology, Welding Technology, Drafting Design Technology, Electronics Technology and Automotive Technology. Students consistently perform well in national skills competitions.

All programs are industry certified by the Alabama Department of Education or private certifying agencies. Articulation agreements with Gadsden State Community College provide college credit toward a degree.

Classroom and shop/lab instruction at the Etowah County Career Technical Center includes:

Precision Machining Technology
Course content is based on the national skills standards of the National Tooling and Machining Association and is certified by the National Institute for Metalworking Skills.

• safety
• blueprint reading
• bench work
• lathe work
• mill work
• grinding
• drill press
• CNC programming
• precision measuring tools and gauges
  

Welding Technology
Course content is certified by the Alabama Department of Education Office of Career Technical Education.

• safety
• shielded metal arc
• gas metal arc
• flux core arc
• gas tungsten arc
• oxy-fuel cutting
• plasma arc cutting
• blueprint reading
• weld symbols
• welding inspection and testing

Drafting Design Technology
The program is pursuing certification by the American Drafting Design Association.

• safety
• geometric construction
• sketching
• dimensioning
• orthographic projection
• CAD functions and techniques
• CAD software applications
• sectioning
• auxiliary views
• threads and fasteners
• pictorals

Electronics Technology

• safety
• DC circuitry
• AC circuitry
• semiconductor technology
• analog circuits
• digital electronics
• AM/FM transmitters
• microprocessors
• electromechanical controls

Automotive Technology

• safety
• diagnosis of malfunctions
• parts inspection and repair
• engine overhaul
• electronic and fuel systems
• steering
• suspension
• front-end alignment
• brakes
• drive train
• transmissions
• heating/air-conditioning
• computer controlled systems

For more details, contact Herman McMurtrey, Director, 256-538-3312.