College Credits
Dual enrollment through New Hampshire Institute of Technology (up to 12 credits)
OR Rochester Institute of Technology PLTW (9 credits)
The Engineering program provides students with an introduction to engineering.
Certifications
- Autodesk Fusion 360 Certified User
- American Heart Association Heartsaver® CPR/AED
- Certified Manufacturing Associate
- Vermont Manufacturing Extension Fundamentals LEAN Manufacturing
- ACT National Career Readiness Certificate
Advisory Board
- Steve Wiegers—Hubbardton Forge
- David Sunderland—Carris Reels
- Sarah Clapp—GE Aviation
- Eliza Wilox—Green Mountain Power
- Anderson Santos—OMYA
- Dan Roswell—RCPS
A firm grasp of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics is essential for success in today’s highly skilled global economy. The Engineering Program incorporates advanced technologies through project-based learning. Through the nationally recognized Project Lead the Way Pathway to Engineering program, students will apply the design process and acquire strong teamwork communication, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills. Students gain valuable experience working with fundamental engineering principles and applied physics, advanced manufacturing, 3D printing, laser cutting, robotics, and machine tools. The course of studies includes Introduction to Engineering Design, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, and Principles of Engineering.
What We Do
The Engineering lab is a dynamic learning environment that replicates the facilities students can expect to experience in post-secondary programs and industry. Students will utilize the most advanced technologies to engage in problem and project-based activities that model engineering principles.
Entry Requirements
Recommended Prerequisites: College preparatory coursework; ability to manipulate and solve quadratic equations; ability to perform unit conversions for distance, velocity and force; ability to manipulate geometric and trigonometric functions to solve right-angle triangle problems (sine, cosine, tangent, and Pythagorean theorem); ability to manipulate and solve equations involving fractions, exponents, and roots; can work as part of a team; possesses strong interpersonal skills; utilizes effective communication skills; is proficient with technology.
Reading Level of class materials: Grade 12
Program Instructor—Erin Cochran
I am a life-long learner and maker who loves to get people excited about learning. My hobbies include makerspaces, bicycling, hiking, songwriting, and photography.
Prior to focusing on teaching engineering, I worked in engineering research and development on innovation of materials and devices for nanotechnologies, solar cells, microphotonics, hydrogen storage, batteries, and hydrogen fusion for companies and laboratories worldwide including Massachusetts Institute of Technology, NASA EPSCoR, Bosch, Max Planck Institute for Plasmaphysics, and the National Institute for Advanced Transportation Technology Center for Clean Vehicle Technology.
erin.cochran@rcpsvt.org (802) 770-1052
Program Instructor—James Holden
James Holden joined Stafford in August 2025. Originally from Paradise, California. James has called Vermont home since 2019. After high school, he attended an automotive technical school where he earned an Associate’s Degree in Automotive Technology and began working as a mechanic. While he enjoyed working on cars, he realized he really liked making things, so he began taking night classes to pursue engineering. James earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Manufacturing from the California State University, Chico. James and his wife have five children and live on their farm, Valley Acres Farm, in Proctor, Vermont. The farm keeps them busy with various projects throughout the year, including tapping 100 maple trees for syrup in sugaring season, planting a large garden in spring, fixing farm equipment, harvesting apples for cider in the fall, and enjoying the
fruits of their labor during the winter months.
James chose to work at Stafford because of the students’ enthusiasm for learning. As
someone who loves solving problems, he’s excited to help the next generation of
engineers do the same and create jobs here in Vermont. (802) 770-1256
