Engineering for US All (e4usa) is proud to announce that we’ve been awarded a second generous grant from MathWorks to continue the development and expansion of our e4usa+Programming course. This renewed support affirms the impact of our ongoing collaboration and our shared commitment to workforce development through hands-on, real-world engineering and programming education.
In just one year, our +Programming course has grown from a pilot of four dedicated teachers to a thriving community of 13 teachers across the country. Three of the original four teachers have returned this year (one retired from teaching), and we’ve welcomed 10 new educators – a testament to the strength of our professional learning community and the enthusiasm surrounding this course.
About the e4usa+Programming Course
e4usa+Programming equips students with foundational programming knowledge and skills that are critical in today’s workforce. Using MATLAB, a computing platform trusted by millions of engineers and scientists worldwide, students explore algorithmic thinking and computational problem-solving through the lens of engineering design.
The course aligns with the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) standards and deeply engages students in the AP Computer Science Principles “Big Ideas” – including Creative Development, Data & Algorithms, and The Impact of Computing. At the same time, students develop a robust engineering design portfolio using e4usa’s MyDesign platform, which bridges computer science with the engineering design process.
By integrating the Create Performance Task from the AP CSP curriculum into their portfolios, students demonstrate both computational thinking and iterative problem-solving in action.
Real-World Learning, Real-World Impact
Classroom projects include:
- Programming interactive games, like a Treasure Hunt using MATLAB.
- Designing and teaching algorithmic instructions – from coding logic to step-by-step sandwich-making challenges.
These creative activities help students understand how computational tools support engineering innovation. With MATLAB integrated into their learning, students see how programming enhances their ability to design, test, and refine engineering solutions.
As one of our pilot teachers, Arren Buck from Sandia Prep (Albuquerque, NM), shared:
“It has been a really great opportunity to get MATLAB involved in my course because it directly links into engineering disciplines in college. Many of my past students have come back saying they wished they had seen MATLAB before college, and this course has given me the framework to get this instruction and knowledge into my students before they leave for college.”
Supporting Teachers Through Ongoing PD
This growth wouldn’t be possible without the strength of our professional development model. Teachers receive training led by e4usa staff, curriculum lead Dr. Ken Reid, and veteran educator Dr. Cheryl Beauchamp, both in the summer and throughout the school year. They participate in a dynamic, year-round community of practice, refining curriculum, supporting one another, and continuously improving their teaching strategies.
Preparing Students for College and Careers
Students in e4usa+Programming are eligible to:
- Sit for the AP Computer Science Principles exam.
- Earn an industry-recognized credential (IRC) by taking the MATLAB Associates Exam, boosting their resume and readiness for careers in engineering and technology.
This dual focus on college preparation and career credentialing supports e4usa’s mission to provide meaningful, practical pathways for all students to enter STEM fields.
Partnering with Industry and Academia
Our +Programming initiative is bolstered by the expertise of industry and university liaisons, including professionals from Google, Duke University, University of New Mexico, and University of Maryland, who offer feedback on student projects, judge showcases, and bring real-world context into the classroom.
Looking Ahead
As we enter our second year with MathWorks support, e4usa is thrilled to grow this program to more classrooms and communities. Tools like MATLAB empower our students to become not just coders or engineers – but thoughtful problem-solvers capable of tackling today’s most pressing challenges.
Stay tuned as we continue adding new schools to e4usa+Programming, equipping students with the skills and confidence to pursue engineering, computing, and beyond.