Center for Innovative Technology
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The CIT program offers a dynamic learning environment for students passionate about technology, innovation, and problem-solving. Through a combination of hands-on projects, research, and professional experiences, students build the technical and creative skills needed to thrive in high-demand fields such as:
Cybersecurity & Network Systems
Programming & Software Development
Game & App Design
Aerospace & Robotics Technology
CIT students don’t just learn about technology they use it to design solutions, lead teams, and drive innovation. Many graduates continue into STEM majors or launch entrepreneurial projects inspired by their CIT experiences.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Students in CIT gain access to industry certifications, internships, and project-based learning opportunities that bridge education with professional reality.
Through collaboration, leadership training, and mentorship, they develop the confidence and skill set to succeed in both higher education and the workforce.
CIT isn’t just a program—it’s a launchpad for the innovators of tomorrow.
Contact Us
17700 Longhouse Lane, Chesterfield, VA 23838
Coordinator: Pam Fayman
804-590-3108 x4203
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Innovative Technology is where creativity meets problem-solving. It drives progress across every industry from medicine and defense to entertainment, robotics, and space exploration. At the Center for Innovative Technology (CIT), students explore how technology shapes the world and learn to use it to design the future.
Through immersive, hands-on learning, CIT students develop skills in coding, cybersecurity, game design, drone piloting, and network security, while also thinking like entrepreneurs. Whether they’re building digital solutions or developing apps and simulations, students learn to apply technology to real-world challenges.
Our Mission
The Center for Innovative Technology (CIT) empowers students to:
- Master technical skills across multiple high-demand technology fields
- Gain hands-on experience through projects, labs, and internships
- Launch business ideas and entrepreneurial ventures
- Earn industry-recognized certifications and credentials
- Strengthen leadership, communication, and teamwork skills
- Graduate fully prepared for college, careers, and innovation in the 21st century
Our Vision
To develop bold, creative, and career-ready leaders who shape the world through technology and innovation.
Program Highlights
- Project-based, hands-on curriculum designed for real-world application
- Advanced coursework in STEM, IT, and emerging technologies
- Work-based learning experiences with local businesses and organizations
- Guest speakers, field trips, and community partnerships
- Opportunities for students to compete, create, and innovate
- A collaborative, inclusive learning environment that inspires growth and creativity
Curriculum
The Center for Innovative Technology (CIT) prepares students for success in both higher education and the technology-driven workforce.
Throughout the program, students gain hands-on experience, earn industry-recognized certifications, and complete real-world projects and internships.
Each student will select one of four specialized Information Technology pathways:
- Game Design
- Programming
- Cybersecurity
- Aerospace Technology
By graduation, every CIT student will have completed at least one industry certification, one work-based learning experience, and developed the foundational skills to thrive in their future studies or careers.
Students build a strong foundation in computing, math, science, and communication skills.
- AP Computer Science Principles
- CIT Honors English
- CIT Honors Geometry or Algebra II
- CIT Honors Biology
- CIT Honors World History
Students begin their chosen IT pathway while continuing core academic growth.
- AP Seminar
- CIT Honors Algebra II
- CIT Honors World
- History II or AP World History
- Honors Science
- Honors World Language
- Health & PE 10
- IT Elective (Year 1 of Pathway)
Deeper exploration of the selected IT pathway with advanced coursework and college-level learning opportunities.
- English (AP Language & Composition orDual Enrollment College Composition)
- Math (Honors, AP, or Dual Enrollment)
- U.S. History (Honors, AP, or Dual Enrollment)
- Science (Honors, AP, or Dual Enrollment)
- Honors Economics & Personal Finance
- Honors World Language or Elective
- IT Elective (Year 2 of Pathway)
Students complete their IT pathway, apply their skills in real-world settings, and prepare for postsecondary success.
- English (AP Literature, Dual Enrollment College Composition, or Dual Enrollment British Literature)
- Government (Honors or AP)
- Science (Honors, AP, or Dual Enrollment)
- Three Electives (including Year 3 of IT Pathway)
- Senior Capstone Project
Note: Students complete a summer internship between junior and senior year or fulfill it through Project Management coursework.
CIT students can earn industry-recognized credentials that validate their technical skills and career readiness, including:
- Unity Certified User – Programmer & Artist
- CompTIA Security+
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification (Drones)
- Microsoft Office Specialist
- And additional certifications based on pathway specialization
Game Design
Sophomore Year
Programming
Junior Year
Game Design
Senior Year
Advanced Game Design
Programming
Sophomore Year
Programming
Junior Year
Advanced Programming
Senior Year
AP Computer Science A
Aerospace Technology
Sophomore Year
Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Junior Year
Advanced Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Senior Year
Aerospace Technology
Cybersecurity
Sophomore Year
Cybersecurity Fundamentals
Junior Year
Cybersecurity Software Operations
Senior Year
AP Cybersecurity
Student Projects
At the Center for Innovative Technology (CIT), students transform ideas into innovation. Our projects reflect creativity, collaboration, and a commitment to problem-solving using modern technology.
Every freshman participates in a year-long project where they design and develop an app or game that solves a real-world or imaginative problem. Working in randomly assigned teams encourages collaboration, creativity, and adaptability core skills in the tech industry.
2023–2024 Top Projects
1st Place: To Be Announced
2nd Place: To Be Announced
In January 2025, CIT students led a 3D Printing Workshop for 5th graders at O.B. Gates and Hening Elementary Schools. Using Tinkercad, the students guided children through the process of designing custom keychains, later printing and delivering them back to their schools.
This outreach program helps foster STEM curiosity and mentorship within the community.
Student Projects
To apply for the CIT program, applicants must provide:
- Two teacher recommendations – one from a 7th or 8th grade core teacher and one from an elective teacher
- A 250-word personal statement explaining your interest in CIT
- An interview (scheduled appointments held January 21–22, 2025)
In January 2025, CIT students led a 3D Printing Workshop for 5th graders at O.B. Gates and Hening Elementary Schools. Using Tinkercad, the students guided children through the process of designing custom keychains, later printing and delivering them back to their schools.
This outreach program helps foster STEM curiosity and mentorship within the community.
FAQ
Approximately 50 students are invited to join each year.
Transportation is provided through specialty center buses and hub locations throughout the county. Check the CCPS Transportation website or contact your area office for details.
“TL” courses are CIT-only core classes (English, Math, Science, History). Students must earn 12 TL/IT elective credits by graduation.
Yes! Matoaca High School offers a wide range of AP and Dual Enrollment opportunities.
Yes. While TL/IT courses are CIT-exclusive, many electives and core classes are shared with other Matoaca students.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Recognizes excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Members maintain high GPAs, lead community initiatives, and embody academic integrity.
Honors achievement and leadership in career and technical education. Members uphold professional ethics and demonstrate advanced technical skill development.
Encourages students to explore STEM fields through hands-on projects, leadership, and national competitions. TSA promotes teamwork, creativity, and technological literacy.
Connects students to real-world business experiences in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. DECA members compete nationally and build essential entrepreneurial skills.
Prepares students for success in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Members engage in conferences, service projects, and career-building opportunities.