A high-tech program at Rangeview High School called mechatronics is helping students earn valuable skills and credentials. Mechatronics teaches students how to work as engineers and technicians in the advanced automated manufacturing industry.
Senior Connor Popp and sophomore Jason Patterson are the first two Rangeview students to earn a “Specialist Certification” in electrical systems. This credential will be a powerful resume builder for higher education opportunities or to join the workforce right out of high school.
Rangeview teacher Mark Shouldice started the mechatronics program in 2019. It serves about 50 students and is one of just a handful of mechatronics programs at high schools across Colorado. A unique piece of technology students learn to use is an industrial robot arm which can be adapted for different needs in manufacturing, warehousing, agriculture and even the military.
Shouldice says it’s gratifying to see his students progressing through the program and he expects even more will be able to earn industry credentials in the near future.
One of the goals of the APS 2026: Faces of the Future strategic plan is that students will have credentials that open doors, which can include college credits, digital badges and a range of college and career certificates.
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