Entrepreneurship
Students in Mechatronics progress through three stages during their time in the program- Level One, Level Two, and Senior Apprentices. In order to move on to the next level, students must complete a checklist of items that they work through with instructors during the trimester.
LEVEL ONE
Our Entrepreneurship One students begin in the program by getting hands on time in a makerspace that we access through our partnership with Maker's Edge Makerspace. They learn to work with a variety of tools in the makerspace such as computer-aided design (CAD) computers, vinyl cutters, t-shirt printers & silk screens. All students complete a basic training course when they begin at Maker's Edge in addition to safety training on each machine. Students are evaluated on their machine operation to ensure safety and competence.
By learning a variety of tools, students develop a prototype for a product of their own, and actively experience the processes of critical thinking and problem solving. Students also visit numerous businesses throughout Waco and gain insight from local entrepreneurs.
LEVEL TWO
After learning business basics and operational safety, Entrepreneurship Two students have the opportunity to run a Triple Win business in a group environment. During this stage, Triple Win acts as a business incubator for students and the brands they create. Students are provided with the facilities and resources they need to start selling their products to the public as they operate within a predesigned structure with the guidance of instructors.
The profits that the student businesses make during the course of the trimester go directly back to the students at the end of the course. Level Two students can also choose to pursue certifications including Entrepreneurship and Small Business (ESB) and the Food Manager's License.
SENIOR APPRENTICES
By the time an Entrepreneurship student reaches the Senior Apprentice Level, they have much more independence in the way they run their business. They create an executive summary and business presentation which they will pitch to a panel to receive seed funds to cover start up costs. Students will set up a bank account for their business and can earn the profits directly from their sales.
