Instructor Training – Greater Lowell Technical High School

Marcraft visited Greater Lowell Technical High School to support instructors as they prepared to implement the STS Basic Certification using the STS-1000 panel for residential systems. The session provided an introduction to the curriculum and an overview of how the program can fit within construction, electronics and cybersecurity pathways. Instructors reviewed the course structure, explored the equipment and discussed how hands-on training can help improve student engagement.

Overview of the STS Basic Certification Program

The STS Basic Certification teaches students how to install and interconnect residential communication, control and entertainment systems. The program also introduces essential concepts related to system integration for both wired and wireless SOHO networks. These skills are increasingly important as smart home and low-voltage technologies become more common in residential and light commercial environments.

Hands-On Equipment Used in Training

The curriculum includes practical labs that use real installation tools and components. Examples include integration controllers, distribution boards, power injectors, IR repeaters, phone line simulators, coaxial splitters, 110-type and 66-type connection blocks, cable testers and home routers. This equipment allows students to build, test and troubleshoot systems similar to those found in the field.

Key Concepts Covered in the Course

The STS Basic Certification covers a wide range of safety, technical and installation topics. These include protective gear, safe tool use, first aid, OSHA guidelines, electrical principles, NEC wire standards, load calculations, lighting controls, grounding and bonding. The course also introduces structured wiring practices, connectors and terminations, category cabling standards, blueprint reading, rough-in methods, retrofit applications, labeling and documentation, customer service and troubleshooting. Together, these subjects help students gain confidence working with residential systems.

During the instructor training session, the Greater Lowell team explored how the STS program could be integrated into existing learning pathways. The session helped instructors evaluate the equipment, review implementation ideas and consider how practical activities can enhance learning outcomes