Alignment to the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model
The competencies and skills found in the Fabrication and Design Fundamentals course closely align with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model, both in technical expertise and essential workplace capabilities expected by Ohio manufacturers. Below is a direct comparison between the course objectives/skills and major strands from Ohio's official model.
**Additional costs associated with this course are the responsibility of the student or school district. Costs are related to materials needed to complete weekly and the capstone projects. Weekly projects cost ~$50/weekly project and ~$200 for capstone project.
Comparison Table
Major Points of Alignment
Technical Skills: Emphasis on deep skills in CAD (2D/3D), digital fabrication (3D printing and scanning), design for manufacturability, and documentation, mirroring industry needs. education.ohio
Project Management: Strong focus on planning, organization, documentation, and collaboration, ensures students are industry-ready with effective communication and workflow practices.education.ohio
Digital Skills: Digital documentation and version control are highlighted in Ohio's standards; learning basic web development and site/portfolio creation aligns with the need for information literacy and technical communication.education.ohio
Ohio Model Key Themes
Strand 1 (Business Operations/21st Century Skills): Communication, leadership, digital documentation, teamwork, employability.
Strand 5 (Design and Development): CAD modeling, prototyping, design thinking, documentation.
Strand 7 (Computer Integrated Manufacturing): Additive manufacturing, digital workflows, automation, scanning.
Strand 6 (Precision & Advanced Machining) and Strand 4 (Materials Joining): Molding, casting, manufacturing processes.
Every major competency and skill in this course directly maps to a core strand and outcomes in Ohio's Manufacturing Career Field Technical Content Standards—ensuring that learners acquire not only technical expertise, but also essential project management, planning, and digital literacy for success in Ohio's advanced manufacturing sector.education.ohio
Additionally, this course aligns closely with Ohio Means Jobs by developing technical and professional skills that are highly sought after by Ohio employers, as identified in the state’s workforce resources and job postings. The Ohio Means Jobs platform connects job seekers to in-demand careers in manufacturing and technology, and the competencies taught in this course prepare students for those occupations.
Fabrication and Design Fundamentals covers practical skills listed in real job descriptions found on Ohio Means Jobs, such as CNC operation, machine setup, 3D modeling, and documentation. Students completing project-based assignments and maintaining a digital portfolio enables students to demonstrate capabilities directly valued in job interviews and applications. By aligning with competencies promoted by Ohio Means Jobs, students are better prepared for certification opportunities and can stand out in the competitive job market for in-demand manufacturing and engineering positions.
In summary, this course builds the skills, documentation habits, and project management expertise that match the requirements of Ohio Means Jobs, supporting direct entry into high-demand manufacturing and technology careers throughout the state.