Terry Schnitter’s Principles of Engineering class at FCHS is for upcoming engineers who want to learn how to code and build machines out of parts. This semester, students were challenged to design and code robotic vehicles. Schnitter has been teaching his class for only two years, but he believes that it can have a big impact on students’ lives. 

“If I had these kinds of classes when I was in high school, I am confident that I would have entered the engineering field for a career,” he said.

Sophomore Evan O’Brien enjoys Schnitter’s class and recommends it for aspiring engineers.

“The class is enjoyable from start to finish. We work on projects where we have to get around or fix a problem and some projects are just for fun. Overall that class is exciting to be in, and I recommend it to anyone who is interested in engineering,” said O’Brien.

One of the main components of the class is being flexible and learning to overcome mistakes. Sophomore Odin Kidd-Bania believes that teamwork and communication is helpful to solve challenges encountered on the field.

“This class teaches you the value of teamwork, creativity, and communication,” Kidd-Bania said.

One example is in a recent class, when Schnitter measured stopping distance to help a student prepare for a race against a fellow classmates’ vehicles. Doing so helped students address any issues with the functions of their vehicles.

“We work on projects where we have to get around or fix a problem, and some just for fun,” said O’Brien.

While working on the robotic vehicle project in Octover, sophomore Duncan Ferrel had a few issues with his vehicle’s initial prototype. He chose to rebuild a stronger and faster model, and subsequently expressed his appreciation of Schnitter as a teacher.

“Mr. Schnitter is a literal genius who always helps me when I need it,” Ferrel said.

Principles of Engineering is open to 9th through 12th graders who have an interest in Engineering. For more information on the class, see Schnitter in Room 4201.