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CAD and Engineering at the Montcalm Area Career Center

CAD and Engineering at the Montcalm Area Career Center Preparing the Next Generation of Designers, Engineers, and Problem Solvers In Montcalm County, education isn’t just about textbooks—it’s about preparing students for real careers, real challenges, and real opportunities. That mission comes to life every day at the Montcalm Area Career Center, where students from across the county gain hands-on experience in career and technical programs. On a recent episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, host and producer Duane Weed sat down inside the Digital Art’s podcast studio with CAD and Engineering (https://www.maisd.com/schools-program...) instructor Mike Johnson to talk about a program that is shaping future designers, engineers, and innovators right here in Montcalm County. What makes the conversation even more unique? Duane Weed also teaches the Digital Arts (https://www.maisd.com/schools-program...) program at the Career Center, meaning the podcast itself becomes a real-world learning environment—with students running cameras, directing the show, and producing content behind the scenes. A Program Built on Real-World Experience Mr. Johnson brings decades of industry and education experience to the classroom. After earning multiple degrees from Ferris State University, he spent nearly a decade working with architectural and engineering firms in the Grand Rapids area before transitioning into education. That industry background shapes how the CAD and Engineering program operates today. “When I was working in industry, I realized I was teaching new employees skills they should have already known,” Johnson explained. “That’s what pushed me toward education.” Today, he focuses on helping students build those skills early—long before they enter the workforce. Starting with the Fundamentals: CAD Students typically begin the program as juniors, spending their first year learning the foundations of design through CAD (Computer-Aided Design). But before jumping into computer software, Johnson starts with something simple: pencil and paper. Understanding traditional drafting helps students develop visualization skills and learn how designs are structured. From there, students move into professional software such as AutoCAD, where they begin turning ideas into digital drawings. As the year progresses, those designs can become real physical objects through modern manufacturing tools like: • 3D printing (additive manufacturing) • Laser cutting • Plasma cutting Students don’t just design objects—they produce them. And sometimes, those designs start with requests from local businesses or community members. Second-Year Students Move Into Engineering During their second year, students take the next step into engineering design. Using professional software like SOLIDWORKS, they begin working in a 3D parametric design environment, allowing them to create complex models that mirror what engineers use in industry. Second-year students also participate heavily in competitions and team projects that simulate real engineering environments. The focus shifts from simply drawing designs to solving problems. Engineering Competitions Build Teamwork One of the most exciting parts of the program is participation in statewide engineering competitions. Students regularly compete through organizations like: • Square One Education Network • Michigan Industrial Technology Education Society These competitions challenge students to design and build innovative solutions—often centered around vehicles, robotics, or autonomous technology. Projects may involve: • Designing electric vehicles • Building autonomous systems • Programming sensors and controls • Creating full engineering presentations But the biggest lesson isn’t just technical. It’s teamwork. Just like in real engineering firms, students must collaborate, debate ideas, and solve problems together. CAD and Engineering at the Montcalm Area Career Center Learning Beyond the Classroom While technical skills are important, Johnson emphasizes that some of the most valuable lessons students learn are soft skills. Students develop: • Communication skills • Professional presentation abilities • Problem solving strategies ...