Matt prefers hands-on learning and excels at math and science. When a family friend recommended Lehigh Career & Technical Institute, he decided to check it out. The Pre-Engineering & Engineering Technology program proved to be a perfect fit for him.

LCTI’s learning-by-doing approach works well for Matt, who says, “Instead of just reading about a lever and its components in a textbook, you build one.”

Plus, students learn at their own pace. “If you’re diligent in your studies, you can advance through the program really fast,” he explains. Thanks to the Pre-Engineering program, Matt’s being exposed to concepts, skills and high-tech equipment most students who study engineering won’t encounter until they reach college.

The Parkland High School junior also takes his academics at LCTI. In addition to more than 40 career and technical education programs, LCTI also has an Academic Center that offers English, math, science, social studies and physical education courses for full-day students in grades 10-12.

The Academic Center’s small class sizes are a big plus for Matt. “No one will forget your name here…and the teachers are really friendly,” he says. You can get a lot more individual help.”

Matt, who serves as a vice president for LCTI’s SkillsUSA chapter and qualified for the organization’s state championships last year, hopes to attend Lehigh University after graduation. He plans to study either material or mechanical engineering.

Learn more about the Pre-Engineering & Engineering Technology program and how it prepares high school students for college and career success.