Do you know more about science and technology than the average American?

[exboyfil]

66. Even engineering does not teach common sense techniques

It is all about math and science. Where engineers get their practical techniques is doing things like SAE Baja Car or Solar Power Car or 1/4" scale tractor pull for example. In High School our students are involved in building robots for competition - you learn so much from doing that. Unfortunately engineers already take a very rigorous academic load with limited opportunities inside the curriculum to get basic skills (the university my daughter is attending next year seems to have a very good sophomore design course). Employers look for the Baja Car etc experience along with prior internships to build those skills. SAE has some scholarships set aside for those in High School that have demonstrated a commitment to the practical aspects of vehicle engineering.

Engineering really should be five years but who can afford that in today's world. My daughter needs more seasoning in practical skills which I hope she will get from an internship this summer prior to going off to college for Mechanical Engineering. My employer has an early talent program, and she would be a strong candidate for that program (she will be entering college as a second semester sophomore).