The Mechatronics Engineering Technology degree at the College of Eastern Idaho prepares students to enter the workforce after graduation. Most graduates work in careers operating and maintaining electro-mechanical systems found in automated or robotically controlled environments.
Mechatronics is an interdisciplinary field that combines elements of mechanics, engineering, machining, controls, information technology, robotics, and electronics. It synergizes these diverse fields to keep production lines, manufacturing floors, and industrial processes working smoothly and efficiently.
Students enter the Mechatronic Engineering Technology (MET) Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program after completion of the Energy Systems certificate program. In that program they learn the basics of DC (Direct Current) and AC (Alternating Current) electronic circuits, motor controls and wiring, and process control thus laying a solid foundation for success in the field.
Upon acceptance into the MET program students learn basic computer programming, robotic theory, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human Machine Interface), electronic circuits, mechanical principles, hydraulics, pneumatics, and automation. The final semester allows the student to integrate all prior learning into a fully automated mechatronics system.
Graduates typically find positions in fields including Oil & Gas, Power Generation, Chemical Processing, Mining, Food Processing, and Manufacturing. For example, as an Automation Technician or Manufacturing Production Technician a graduate may work on robotic or PLC systems in a manufacturing environment. Graduates’ duties might include performing repairs, troubleshooting mechanical or electrical problems, doing preventative maintenance, providing front-line automation support as part of a talented team.
Students can gain industry certification including ISCET ESA Exam 1 in the Energy Systems certificate. Followed by FCR-O1 FANUC Certified Robot-Operator 1 in the second year of the Mechatronics program.
Placement in specific English and Math courses is determined by the college assessment test. Prospective students who do not meet the initial eligibility requirements for year 1 Energy Systems must successfully complete selected remedial courses prior to acceptance into the program. Program capacity is capped at 16. If more applicants apply, students will be taken on a first-come first-serve basis, remaining students may be placed on a waitlist.
Intended Learning Outcomes
- Solve technical problems typical of those encountered in the mechatronics engineering technology discipline by using critical thinking skills, current technology, and principles of mathematics and applied science
- Work and communicate effectively in multidisciplinary teams in both industrial and academic settings
- Demonstrate safe work practices on electrical equipment while following National Electrical Code (NEC), Occupational Safety and Health (OHSA), National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 70E, Lockout/TagOut, and other required guidelines
- Utilize test out equipment to troubleshoot and analyze electrical, electronic circuits
- Analyze basic power electronics, Alternating Current (AC), Direct Current (DC), and digital circuits
- Design and troubleshoot circuits for motor control
- Develop mechanical skills using machines, drawings, pneumatics, fluids, and tool manipulation
- Demonstrate robot movement, homing, looping, and effector operation of current and future technologies
- Evaluate the integration of mechatronic equipment and how the subdisciplines combine in a complex system
- Create and document solutions to industrial manufacturing using tools such as programming, networking, scripting, and I/O interfacing
Seventy to seventy-one (70-71) Credits
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