Linn-Mar Students Lead the Way in Engineering and Innovation
Project Lead the Way (PLTW) courses at Linn-Mar High School are providing students with real-world experiences in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)—and helping them prepare for bright futures beyond high school.
PLTW is a nationally recognized program that focuses on hands-on, project-based learning. Students can explore a wide range of fields through engaging coursework designed to mirror the work of professionals in STEM careers.
At Linn-Mar, students can take the following PLTW courses:
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Introduction to Engineering Design (IED)
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Principles of Engineering (PoE)
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Digital Electronics (DE)
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Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
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Civil Engineering and Architectural Design (CEA)
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Aerospace Engineering (AE)
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Principles of Biomedical Science (PBS)
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Engineering Design and Development (EDD)
Seniors in Mr. Christopher Patterson’s Engineering Design and Development class, which serves as the capstone for the PLTW program, take on a semester-long project. Students identify a real-world problem, research possible solutions, design a prototype, and present their work to an outside panel of experts. The process mimics what professional engineers and designers experience in the workplace.
“It’s really nice because other classes, like English class, you’re doing one thing that everyone has to do, and it’s so structured,” said a student from Group #1. “Whereas something like this, there’s goals we have to achieve, but it’s a lot more open. I think that really lets us do what we want.”
Learning by Doing
This year’s projects include a biodegradable water bottle made from PHA plastic, a toothbrush with built-in flossing functionality, an improved bus cart for restaurants, ergonomic school seating designed with posture and comfort in mind and other impactful projects.
“It’s not just take notes, take a test—it actually feels like you’re using what you learn,” said Owen Soenen, senior. “You’re prototyping parts, solving unexpected problems, and doing things you can’t really experience in a traditional class.”
Students said the open-ended nature of the course gives them the freedom to be creative while still working toward real goals. “There’s structure, but it’s a lot more open,” said Grant Jessen, senior. “That really lets us do what we want.”
Preparation for the Future
Many also emphasized how the class has helped prepare them for college and future careers. “It gives us tools to help succeed in college,” said Reid Demuth. “It’s preparing you for an actual job in engineering.”
Students also praised the strong support from teachers and the collaborative environment in the PLTW department.
“The department is really close-knit,” said Kate Ihringer, senior. “We all know the teachers, and it’s just really fun and hands-on.”
Whether they plan to become engineers, architects, electricians or designers, Linn-Mar students in Project Lead the Way are learning to problem-solve, think creatively and make a difference.
For students interested in STEM, senior Tyler Person had simple advice: “If you’re passionate about it, go for it.”
Celebrating Student Achievement
Linn-Mar students who complete three or more Project Lead the Way courses in engineering, computer science or biomedical science are eligible to receive an honor cord to wear at graduation. The cords recognize students’ dedication to STEM learning and their success in completing a rigorous, hands-on curriculum.
“We want the public to know about these opportunities because they really give our students a leg up for the future,” said Christopher Patterson, PLTW teacher at Linn-Mar High School.
This year’s PLTW Cording Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, May 14 at 6 p.m. in the Lecture Hall at Linn-Mar High School. Families are invited to attend and celebrate students’ accomplishments in the program.
Whether students are planning careers in STEM or simply exploring their interests, Project Lead the Way helps prepare them for the future—one project at a time.