Learning to solve problems: the Academy for Engineering and Technology

A two-year, dual-enrollment program housed at IALR, the Academy for Engineering and Technology (AET) provides experiential learning activities focused on theory and design. This episode features AET’s Coordinator and Engineering Instructor, John Hatchett, 2016 graduating AET class and current PhD student, Shelita Hall and 2024 AET graduate Caleb Pearson. John discusses the goals of the program and highlights how the curriculum provides transferrable skills - like problem-solving and collaboration - that students will need in any career. Shelita talks about what she is currently doing now and how the AET program helped prepare her for higher education and her career with NASA. Caleb reflects on what the past two years have been and how it has shaped and ultimately connected everything in his life.Students earn college credits from Danville Community College in math, engineering and English courses. The program is supported by a partnership between IALR, Danville Community College, Pittsylvania County Schools and Danville Public Schools. If you or your child is interested in the Academy for Engineering and Technology, please visit ialr.org/aet for more information.  The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves as a regional catalyst for economic transformation in Southern Virginia. Our services, programs and offerings are diverse, impactful and far reaching. Get updates from IALR on other channels: Facebook LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Email NewsletterNews Stories