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Mechatronics

SPIRE Academy | Mechatronics

In 2020, SPIRE launched a full-time Mechatronic Engineering program, featuring hands-on training in robotics systems. This ground-breaking program for students in grades 9-12 is designed to provide the experience, knowledge and toolset to pursue a professional career in robotics and engineering through project-based, hands-on curriculum and training.

This school program prepares students for admission into a college program or directly into the workforce upon graduation. Careers in robotics technology don’t always require a four-year degree, and the SPIRE Mechatronic Engineering program – which emphasizes doing – accelerates the learning process. Non-traditional learners in particular will benefit from SPIRE’s hands-on and individualized study regimens. Intensive summer programs and internships with innovative technology companies will further the student’s readiness for the workforce.

Download The Admissions Guide

Training Philosophy

SPIRE’s Mechatronic Engineering program combines coursework from electronics, mechanical systems, software programming and much more. Students will learn a diverse set of skills and knowledge through coursework and hands-on lab instruction, including:

  • Software Systems, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Autonomous Control
  • Computer Aided Design (CAD)
  • Mechanical Systems Including Hydraulics and Stepping Motors
  • Basic Electronics and Electrical Systems
  • Telecommunications Systems
  • Sensory Inputs, such as Visual and Tactile Systems
  • Product Design and Engineering
Students will learn a diverse set of skills and knowledge through coursework and hands-on lab instruction.
Download The Admissions Guide
Students will learn a diverse set of skills and knowledge through coursework and hands-on lab instruction.

  • Mechatronic Engineering Program

    While the Mechantronic Engineering program is designed around a four-year path, students do not need to attend all four years to enjoy the benefits. Each year will be a standalone program with certifications in multiple technologies to help propel students directly into the workforce or into a college program.

  • Mechatronic Fabrication Lab

    SPIRE’s Mechatronic fabrication lab will feature the tools and equipment — and fully built robots — to jump-start student learning. SPIRE’s hands-on structure provides students valuable time working in SPIRE’s Lab — creating, repairing and modifying robotic systems. The Lab is also available evenings and weekends, to ensure that passionate students have access to the tools needed to succeed.

  • Curriculum

    Daytime instruction includes 3 hours of Mechatronic Engineering coursework/training plus 1 hour in SPIRE’s Performance Training Center for physical conditioning, mental skills training, and/or nutrition/hydration work. The remainder of the school day focuses on 5 hours of core academics.

    Coursework encompases hardware, software, sensors and design of robots, drones and automated systems. Course “lecture” materials are delivered in video format which the students watch in the evening, while class time is dedicated to hands-on lab time, group projects, problem solving, and one-on-one teacher interaction with the students. Class sizes will be small to provide ample personalized instruction.

    SPIRE’s Mechatronics program provides “deep dive” exposure to commercial robot systems, robot kits, CAD/CAM design, programming, electronics, fabrication lab tools (3D printing, CnC router, laser cutter, metal and wood shop), motors, actuators, hardware, vision systems and commercial applications for robotics. Additional curriculum will focus on drones, including flight training, mission planning, GPS & mapping, FPV sim training, quad design & tuning, track design and race management.

  • Additional Activities

    Evenings and weekends at SPIRE offer students numerous activities and sports to have fun, relax and explore their passions. SPIRE’s 430 acre campus offers world class facilities for both indoor and outdoor sports, including multiple fields, pools, courts, running tracks and hiking trails, plus brand new residential facilities. Students will dine at SPIRE’s famous FUEL food-court style cafeteria, featuring freshly prepared offerings and serving all dietary requirements and preferences.

    The Mechatronic Fab Lab will be a featured part of evening and weekend activities, providing students with valuable fabrication and production time while offering opportunities to explore additional learning paths related to robotics engineering.

    SPIRE is establishing a drone sports club on campus and will host regional drone racing competitions and national league events. SPIRE’s summer bootcamps offer deep-dives on drone racing and engineering.

    The SPIRE Esports lab will also be available evening and weekends, and featuring competitions, training and free time to relax, play and socialize. Virtual reality games, experiences and esports competitions will also be included in the lab.

  • Unique Facilities

    • Fabrication Lab/Workshop
    • Esports Arena/Training Lab
    • Indoor/Outdoor Drone Racing Arena
    • Drone Racing Sim Lab
    • VR/Mixed-Reality Lab

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  • Tell me about the educational delivery model.

    SPIRE Academy provides in person inquiry, mastery based learning. Students focus on group projects, presentation and other ways to demonstrate students master the curriculum. 

    SPIRE’s learning environment balances academic and athletic training and development that nurture personal growth and stimulate the desire to challenge oneself.

    Teachers guide and facilitate learning through engaging, hands-on activities, creative and critical thinking skills, and classroom dialogue.

  • Do you offer day programs or is it only boarding options?

    SPIRE Academy offers a day student option for local students who can commute to campus. Day students receive all the same benefits as boarding students but live at home instead of in SPIRE’s Student Village.

  • How good do I have to be in my sport?

    SPIRE accepts athletes of varying ability, but they all have one thing in common.  They come to SPIRE because they have the heart and desire to become better student athletes.  SPIRE student athletes come from various competitive backgrounds and all have different goals they want to achieve while here and beyond, whether it is to continue their sport after high school or beyond.

  • What does a day look like?

    Academy Sample Schedule:

    6:00am-7:00am Breakfast
    7:00am – 8:50am – Block 1
    9:00am – 10:50am Block 2
    10:50am – 11:50am Lunch
    12:00pm -1:50pm Block 3
    2:00pm – 3:50pm Block 4
    4:00pm – 5:50pm Block 5
    6:00pm-7:15pm Dinner

    Depending on the individual coaches periodization, athletes may train once or twice a day. Performance would also be flexible as to where it falls during the day (and how many days per week) as well.

  • Where do student athletes live on campus? Will I have a roommate?

    SPIRE Boarding Students live in the SPIRE SPIRE Village which consists of three styles of dorms. Most of the dorms are like mini homes with single used bathrooms and large family room.

    Yes, most students have two students per room, some students might have up to 3 students in a room. 

  • How much is the tuition?

    Day rates are different than boarding rates please contact us for more information [email protected].

  • How does SPIRE assist with college planning and placement?

    At SPIRE, we believe that the college planning and placement process is one of the most important aspects of Academy life—and you can’t start this process too early! 

    Our college planning process begins freshman year and only concludes when a student has graduated from college or chosen and achieved their goals on a different path.  

    SPIRE works with student athletes to find a university that is a good fit academically, athletically and socially.  Students are taught how to search for colleges and universities with their intended major as well as their desired sport using the guidance of their coaches, teachers and advisors.  This includes how to communicate with schools and coaches, fill out the Common Application and other applications, including filing FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

  • What are the benefits of a Post Grad year?

    Students come for Post Grad year to train and develop at a higher level with aspirations of higher level of recruiting success. The students have a better understanding of what it takes to get to the collegiate level.

  • Racial Nondiscriminatory Policy

    The governing board of SPIRE Academy located at 5201 SPIRE Circle in Geneva, Ohio 44041 has adopted the following racial nondiscriminatory policies.

    SPIRE Academy recruits and admits students of any race, color or ethnic origin to all its rights, privileges, programs and activities. In addition, SPIRE Academy will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, employment, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

    SPIRE Academy will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or ethnic origin in the hiring of its certified or non-certified personnel.

  • Does SPIRE offer scholarships and financial assistance?

    SPIRE offers a limited amount of financial aid. Recipients are selected based on academics, athletics, character and financial review. For more information, please reference our admissions page.

  • Where can I find additional information about living at SPIRE Academy?

    Click here to find all resources related to living on the SPIRE Campus.

  • Is the Admissions process competitive?

    SPIRE evaluates each student individually to determine if they are a good fit. The admissions process includes submitting an official transcript, letters of recommendation from an English teacher, a math teacher, and a principal or coach; completing an interview with an admissions manager and a sports coach; and submitting a completed application.

    Each applicant is reviewed by the Admissions Committee to determine if they meet SPIRE admissions requirements.

  • Does SPIRE Academy offer scholarships?

    SPIRE offers financial assistance for families who qualify. All families are reviewed on a case by case basis.  Families must complete the Clarity financial aid application. Please access through our admissions department.

  • Do you have any other question or need additional help with admissions?

    Please contact our Admissions Department at [email protected]

  • When is the deadline to apply?

    Application for 2026 – 2027 will open in August of 2025. SPIRE works on rolling admission for the 2025-2026 school year, however, dorm and team roster availability may be limited. 

  • Would participation in a post grad year affect my four-year NCAA eligibility?

    No, a post graduate year does not affect NCAA eligibility.

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