Tarina VaNatta, Department Head
256.352.8150
tarina.vannatta@wallacestate.edu
electrical@wallacestate.edu
www.wallacestate.edu/mechatronics
Associate in Applied Science Degree (5 semesters)
Certificate (5 semesters)
Short-Term Certificates (1 semester)
At a Glance
Graduates of the Electro Automations (Mechatronics) program are exceptionally prepared for high-skilled and highly paid careers in various fields, with qualifications tailored to diverse workforce sectors. They can secure lucrative technician roles in fields such as robotics/automation and controls, electrical or multicraft maintenance, power generation, instrumentation/electronics or biomedical equipment technicians. Their comprehensive education in the fundamentals of electricity, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), robotics, smart sensors, vision technology, autonomous automation, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) equips them with up-to-date, sought-after skills. This extensive training prepares them for highly sought-after technician jobs in technologically advanced fields within various manufacturing sectors, the aerospace industry, machine integration, power generation, and biomedical technicians, providing them a competitive advantage in these modern industries.
Program Description
Students can earn an associate in applied science degree (or certificate) within five semesters, attending school 2 days per week. Additionally, short-term certificates are available each semester for both pathways.
The Electro Automation pathway includes an apprenticeship option through the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME – Wallace State FAME ), a nationally recognized program. Accepted apprentices attend classes twice a week and work with an employer for at least three days a week. This practical experience complements classroom and lab learning, enhancing students’ understanding, and giving them the work experience advantage over others who have not completed a work-based learning program. Students also develop sought-after industry skills like safety, communication, team building, 5S, lean manufacturing, and machine reliability.
Program Expectations
Teaching is accomplished through traditional lectures and demonstrations in the classroom and a hybrid format of computer-based and web-based instruction. Hands-on laboratory exercises reinforce concepts covered in the courses, and real-world troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair exercises strengthen them.
Career Path
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for professionals in 2023 was as follows:
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians: $31.29 per Hour and $65,080 per Year
Medical Equipment Repairers: Pay $29.17 per Hour and $60,670 per Year