North High freshman Luis Ochoa Escobar watches as the 3D printer quickly scans back and forth, working to create his model design of the island from “The Lord of the Flies.” 

“It’s going to be a rectangular prism but will have a cube on the side to represent the rock island they’re stuck on, a half circle to represent the mountain and a pool area where they swim,” said Ochoa Escobar. “I designed it on my computer.”

When Ochoa Escobar’s English class finished reading “The Lord of the Flies,” they were tasked with writing an alternate ending or creating a model of the island. During this assignment, he came up with the idea to combine what he learned in his Intro to Engineering class with his English project, using a 3D printer to create a detailed island model.

“I used all the skills I’ve learned in my engineering class to make the best design I could for a simple island,” said Ochoa Escobar. “One of the best things is to see what I designed on a computer to be created in real life.” 

North High’s Engineering & Design Academy is one of many options available for high school students through Omaha Public Schools College & Career Academies and Pathways. Students learn about mechanical design, engineering, precision machining, robotics and automation. 

In Brett Sailor’s Intro to Engineering course, students learn to sketch ideas, design on the computer and then move on to 3D modeling. They are currently working on projects like puzzle cubes and miniature model trains. These models are then brought to life with 3D printers.

“Seeing the tangible results of what they've done and being able to hold their designs goes a long way,” said Sailor, North High teacher. “Many of my students want to do hands-on stuff, and this is our way to give it.”

Ochoa Escobar plans to continue the engineering pathway through high school and pursue a career in mechanical engineering. He says the Engineering & Design Academy will help him develop his design skills and prepare him for the future. 

“For incoming students, I think they should give the engineering pathway a try because they might enjoy it,” he said. “You never know if you could find a future interest in becoming an engineer.”

Families can learn more about the opportunities available at Omaha Public Schools ahead of School Selection, which begins in January, by visiting our website. 

Nov. 2024

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