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Student Life

TIE Program

Discover Innovation with LLA’s Technology, Innovation, and Engineering Program

Welcome to the LLA Technology, Innovation, and Engineering Program, where cutting-edge technology meets innovative design thinking. Our curriculum equips students with 21st-century skills, advanced manufacturing techniques, and ethical foundations to positively impact the world.

Building a Strong Foundation

Hands-on training begins with various skills in traditional mediums in an extensive woodshop and metal fabrication maker space. Students explore manufacturing processes and project development by diving into technology and design thinking fundamentals. New technology is introduced with FDM (3D) printers, laser cutters, and CAD routers, providing practical experience in creating projects and prototypes.

Advanced Techniques and Specialized Tracks

Intermediate to advanced techniques in additive manufacturing and design thinking are covered, including optimizing complex geometries with FDM printers and user-centered design principles. A unique feature is the collaborative project with the LLU and LLUMC Orthotics and Prosthetics Department, where students design and prototype assistive devices, emphasizing empathy and encouraging innovative solutions rooted in Christian values.

Capstone Projects and Professional Development

Students develop capstone projects with guidance and mentorship, culminating in presentations and exhibitions to showcase their work. Professional skills training, including resume building and interview preparation, ensures they are well-equipped for future careers.

Join Us in Shaping the Future

At LLA, we believe in the power of technology to transform lives. Our program is not just about acquiring skills; it’s about developing a mindset that combines innovation with compassion. Join us to be part of a community that values creativity, ethical responsibility, and a commitment to making the world a better place.

TIE Makerspace

Our Technology, Innovation, and Engineering Program boasts a massive, state-of-the-art maker space designed to inspire creativity and hands-on learning. This cutting-edge facility is equipped with laser cutters, 3D printers, resin printers, and a large-format inkjet printer, providing a comprehensive range of digital fabrication tools. The woodworking shop features state-of-the-art SawStop saws, while the metal fabrication shop includes welders and a CNC plasma cutter for advanced metalwork. Additionally, the automotive shop and CNC router expand the possibilities for students to bring their innovative designs to life, making this maker space a hub for creativity and technical excellence.

How to Apply

Application Process for the Technology, Innovation, and Engineering (TIE) Program

We are excited to invite students who are passionate about technology, innovation, and engineering to apply for our TIE Program. Our application process is designed to help us understand your interests, skills, and motivation for joining this unique program

How long is the program and who can apply?

LLA students get acquainted with innovation and the TIE instructor during their freshman year with the required Innovation and Design semester class. The TIE program lasts a minimum of two years and is taken during your sophomore and junior years at LLA. An optional third year is available for students who want to dive deeply into an approved senior capstone project. Any LLA freshman is eligible to apply for the TIE program and would enter the program as a sophomore. Students transferring in as sophomores are also eligible to apply.

Step 1: Application Form

Complete the online application below. This form will collect your basic information, academic history, and contact details.

Step 2: Examples of Projects

Submit photographs of technological, building, science, or art projects that you have worked on. This could be a school project, a hobby, or any other relevant work showcasing your skills and creativity. Make sure to include a brief description (150-200 words) of the project, explaining its purpose, the materials and tools you used, and what you learned from the experience.

Step 3: Personal Essay

Write an essay (500-700 words) explaining why you should be accepted into the TIE Program. Your essay should address the following points:

- Your interest in technology, innovation, and engineering.

- Any relevant experiences or projects you have completed.

- How you plan to contribute to the program and what you hope to gain from it.

- Your commitment to the values of creativity, ethical responsibility, and making a positive impact on the world.

Step 4: Interview

Qualified applicants will be invited for an interview with the TIE program coordinator. During the interview, you will have the opportunity to discuss your application, projects, and aspirations in more detail.

Submission Guidelines

1. Photograph of Project and Description

2. Personal Essay: Include in the email as an attached document (PDF or Word).

3. Email to tie@lla.edu with the subject line "TIE Program Project Submission – [Your Name]"

Deadline

All application materials must be submitted by August 1st.

We look forward to reviewing your application and learning more about your passion for technology, innovation, and engineering. If you have any questions about the application process, please get in touch with our TIE program coordinator, Michael Brown, at tie@lla.org.

Join us in shaping the future through creativity, innovation, and ethical responsibility!

TIE Application

*First Name

*Last Name

Indicate

Male

Female

*Address

*City

*State

*Zip

*Student Email

*Student Phone

*Current Grade

*Current School

*Parent Name

*Parent Email

*Parent Phone

*Hobbies

*Personal Interests

*Technology Skills

*Computer Skills & Programs

*Tools or Building Experience

TIE Program

List of 1 items.

Technical Professions
- Architect
- Engineer
- Patent Attorney
- Geologist
- Controller
- Metallurgist
- Aviation Administration
- Dentistry
- Industrial Safety
- Biomedical Electronics
- Archeologist
- Occupational Therapist
- Tool and Die Maker
- Cabinet Maker/Manufacturer
- Building Inspector
- Plant/Operations Manager
- Automotive Mechanic
- Insurance Adjuster
- Prosthetics Technician
- Model Maker

Quotes from Students & Parents

"The activities you describe my son will be experiencing in your class would have better prepared me for my work as an orthopedic surgeon than anything I every took in school."

"Jeremy wasn't quite sure he wanted to be an engineer, but it was your class that helped him make up his mind." - Mother of Nike shoes engineer

"We had to make extensive construction improvements to our house and also to the local church. We collected our water using a catchment basin and used solar panels to charge batteries for electricity at night . . . he said we were the only student missionaries he'd ever seen that knew what they were doing."

"Although Eric was an A and B student, he hated school. Your class was the only bright spot in his day. I don't think we could have gotten him to school if it wasn't for TIE."

"The TIE program helped me prepare for Dentistry better than anything else I took in school. If you get a

chance to get into TIE, take it!"

"I may only be a freshman Walla Walla Engineering student, but second semester they made me lab

assistant for the senior Engineering students!"

"It was your class that helped Ryan decide to become an architect! He loved TIE!"

"I am in the country of Jordan on an archaeological dig. When I was in TIE, I was extremely lost in drafting and mapping. Now I have to do it every day while managing the progress I make in my archaeological space. The help you gave me has made it easier to do. Thanks!"

"When I was in school you had to choose between the academics or the technical. Here you get both."

"When Jeremy went to Andrews he said he wanted to take something that reminded him of home. He took the lamp he made in TIE."