Jerry Murcks, Dean of Applied Technologies
256.352.8154
jerry.murcks@wallacestate.edu
www.wallacestate.edu/mechatronics
Associate in Applied Science Degree (5 semesters)
Certificate (5 semesters)
Short-Term Certificates (1 semester)
Graduates of the Mechatronics program are exceptionally prepared for high-skilled and highly paid careers in various fields, with qualifications tailored to diverse workforce sectors. Depending on their specialization, 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 high-paying positions in highly-skilled fields within the automotive manufacturing, aerospace industry, machine integration, power generation, and biomedical sectors, providing them a competitive advantage in these technologically advanced industries.
Wallace State offers Mechatronics and Electrical Technology programs where 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 Mechatronics pathway includes an apprenticeship option through the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (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.
The Electrical Technology pathway teaches students residential, commercial, and industrial wiring skills that follow nationally recognized standards. These highly sought-after skills prepare students for various career paths, including electrical contractor, facility maintenance technician, and manufacturing machine integration and installation positions. These career paths span the manufacturing, electrical, and construction industries, offering diverse work environments and tasks.
Teaching is accomplished by traditional lectures and demonstrations in the classroom and by using a hybrid format of computer-based and web-based instruction. Hands-on laboratory exercises reinforce concepts covered in the courses and strengthen the concepts by adding real-world troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair exercises.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for professionals in 2022 was as follows:
Electro-mechanical and mechatronics technologists and technicians
$31.29 hourly
$$65,080 annually
Industrial machinery mechanics, machinery maintenance workers, and millwrights
$29.41 hourly
$61,170 annually
Electrical and electronics engineers
$52.41 hourly
$109,010 annually
This course provides instruction in basic physics concepts applicable to mechanics of industrial production equipment. Topics include the basic application of mechanical principles with emphasis on power transmission, specific mechanical components, alignment, and tension. Upon completion, students will be able to perform basic troubleshooting, repair and maintenance functions on industrial production equipment.
As required by college
This course involves the theory, applications, calculations, and connections associated with transformers and power distribution systems commonly used in the electrical field.
As required by program
This course is a study of various tasks, wiring methods, materials, and associated NEC requirements that students will be required to work with in residential and commercial wiring courses.
As required by program
This course is a study of residential wiring practices and methods, the NEC requirements and residential blueprint interpretations.
As required by program
This course is a continuation of ELT 131 and is all inclusive. Including the study of branch circuits, installation requirements for services, feeders and special equipment considerations including the NEC code requirements. Emphasis is placed on load calculations, conductors, service sizing, installation requirements, NEC code requirements, transformers, lighting, HVAC and special equipment considerations. Upon completion, students should be able to know how to size complete electrical commercial/industrial systems and know the NEC requirements for each system.
As required by program.
This course introduces the newest technology available for Smart House wiring equipment and wiring methods to include control of whole-house electrical equipment and home entertainment produces. Emphasis is placed on specialized skills and tools required for wiring Smart Houses. Upon completion, students should be able to install special devices and automated equipment in a high-technology Smart House.
As required by the college
This course will enable the student to obtain to a working knowledge of the elements of blueprint reading; the ability to interpret electrical, mechanical, and architectural drawing; and the ability to visualize the entire building structure in relationship to the electrical system. This course will enable the student to obtain to a working knowledge of the elements of blueprint reading; the ability to interpret electrical, mechanical, and architectural drawing; and the ability to visualize the entire building structure in relationship to the electrical system.
As required by program.
This course provides a study of the technical skills required to safely perform electrical wiring installations. Topics include methods of wiring residential, commercial, and industrial locations. Upon completion, studens should be able to apply safe wiring skills to residential, commercial and industrial applications.
As required by program
This course covers motor operation, motor types, motor components, motor feeder and branch circuits. Topics include motor protection and motor control circuits. Upon lab completion, students should be able to test motors, transformer types, and test input and output voltage.
As determined by the college
This course provides the student with knowledge in AC/DC machinery and controls. Topics include the characteristics and operating principles of the different types of AC/DC generators and motors, manual and automatic starters and controllers. The lab enables to students test, troubleshoot and repair AC/DC Machinery and controls. Upon completion, the student will be able to apply practical skills in AC/DC machinery.
As determined by the college
This course introduces the students to applications of computers in the laboratory setting. It will cover the computer from a hardware standpoint and introduce the operating system. Application software will include word processing, spreadsheets, datebase managers, and other electronic related software. Upon completion, students should be able to operate a personal computer in the technical setting.
As required by college.
This course provides a guided independent study of special topics in ILT. The student and instructor design th eplan of study. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate skills developed in these courses.
As required by program
This course introduces students to the National Electric Code. Emphasis is placed on locating and interpreting needed information within the NEC code manual. Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to locate code requirements for a specific electrical installation.
As required by program
