Institute of Technology & Engineering (ITE)

The Institute of Technology & Engineering (ITE) was created when the Information Technology Academy (ITA) and the Engineering Academy (formerly METSA) were merged in 2025. ITE prepares students for high-demand careers in the IT and Engineering fields, connecting students to a network of industry leaders in our community, and offers post-secondary opportunities. Students will benefit from the collaborative partnership between CFBISD, higher education entities, and our industry partners, giving students the opportunity to learn essential computer science, cybersecurity, networking, engineering, aerospace, and electrical and mechanical engineering skills. Students will also have the opportunity to engage in the TSA (Technology Student Association) a nationwide STEM competition organization hosting over 60 virtual competitions.

Strands

Information Technology Programs of Study

Cybersecurity

The Cybersecurity program of study focuses on the planning, implementing, upgrading or monitoring security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. This program includes responding to computer security breaches and viruses and administering network security measures.

students programming

Programming & Software Development

The Programming & Software Development program of study is designed to equip high school students with coding, software architecture, and problem-solving skills needed to pursue high-paying tech careers or higher education.

Networking Systems

Networking Systems focuses on the structure, transportation, and utilization of data as it flows from an origin to a destination. This strand utilizes skills from various branches of technology in order to ensure our data flows safely and securely throughout our everyday lives.

laptop with computer code

Web Development

Web Development focuses on the user experience and design of online interactions. From web pages to back end coding the Web Development strand blends creativity and technical expertise.

Engineering Programs of Study

Engineering Foundations

Students in Engineering Foundations will design, test, and evaluate projects related to engines, machines, and structures. CTE learners will apply scientific, mathematical, and empirical evidence to solve problems through innovation, design, construction, operation and maintenance of different engineering systems.

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering

Students will focus on the design, development, maintenance, and testing of engines, machines, and structures related to aircraft and spacecraft. Students will design, test and evaluate projects related to aerodynamics, structural, and mechanical design. CTE learners will apply scientific, mathematical, and empirical evidence to solve problems for navigation, mechanics, robotics, propulsion and combustion.

Engineering Robotics

Engineering Robotics students will learn about the assembly, operation, maintenance, and repair of electromechanical equipment or devices. CTE learners may work in a variety of mechanical fields, gaining knowledge and experience in robotics.

Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering focuses on the design, development, testing, and supervision of electrical equipment and systems. Students will design, test, and evaluate projects related to electrical motors, radar navigation systems, and communication systems. CTE leaners will apply scientific, mathematical, and empirical evidence to solve problems in electrical systems, associated with instruments, facilities, components and equipment.

Machining & Fabrication

Machining & Fabrication students focus on the development and use of automatic and computer-controlled machines, tools, and robots that perform work on metal or plastic. CTE learners will learn how to set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments. Students will also learn how to modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain individual machines.

Drones

Drones focuses on the occupational and educational opportunities associated with operating or designing an unmanned aircraft using a ground-based controller. This program of study includes understanding and designing systems of communications between the controller and the aircraft to ensure compliance with federal aviation safety regulations.

Expert Teachers

Our teachers are certified in Information Technology, Computer Sciences, or Engineering. Many of our teachers come from industry with real-world experience.

Antoinetta Bertrand

Antoinetta Bertrand has been teaching for six years and is a graduate of Southern University and A&M College. She has a Masters in Business Adminstration. She considers herself a lifelong learner with a passion for sharing knowledge.

Thomas Shuttlesworth

Bio coming soon

Meason Kolkhorst

Bio coming soon

Kalainathan Sivaperuman

Bio coming soon

John Zercher

John Zercher spent 20 years in the marketing and IT industries as a Graphic Designer, Web Designer, and Application Developer for companies across North Carolina and Texas before completing his degree in IT and his Education Certification at the University of North Texas. He has been teaching for 8 years, his move to education influenced by his desire to impart real world, practical skills to his students and help them visualize their many possible avenues to success.

Adam Shead

Bio coming soon

David Berry

Bio coming soon

Connected Learners

Benefits

Students will learn skills essential in computer science, networking, computer maintenance, engineering, aerospace and robotics:

Javascript
HTML
CSS
Python programming and database administration
Computer maintenance
Network system administration
Engineering Technology Foundations
Autodesk AutoCAD
FAA Part 107 Remote Drone Pilot

Career Pathways:

Web Developer: $70,000
Web Designer: $32,000
Application Developer: $85, 000
System Administrator: $77,000
Information Technology Support Specialist: $55, 000
Aerospace Engineer: $110,843
Industrial Engineer: $97,074
Mechanical Engineer: $91,107
Electrical Engineer: $98,405
Drone Pilot: $50,000

Additional Links

Contact:
John Zercher - IT
zercherj@cfbisd.edu
972-968-5192

Meason Kolkhorst - Engineering
Kolkhorstm@cfbisd.edu
972-968-5070

This Academy is offered at:

Ranchview High School

Grade Levels Served:
9th-12th Grades