Paul D. Camp Community College will begin offering a new innovative program that could be perfect for the student who wants a good career in the high-demand fields of mechanics, electronics and technology.

Employers are seeking professionals who can install, maintain and operate electrical, mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic systems. Students graduating with an associate’s degree in mechatronics from PDCCC will have the skills and experience to troubleshoot and maintain robotics and programmable and integrated systems.

If you enjoy working with your hands, troubleshooting and maintaining a product, then this degree is for you.

After attending a four-semester curriculum, you will have obtained the skills necessary to operate and maintain a FANUC robot, electrical motors and motor systems, PID controlled systems, various elements of instrumentation, programmable logic controllers and electrical/electronic systems.

Many local and regional businesses and industries utilize all of these components within their companies, making the graduate a highly sought after hire.

“The program is designed to give every student a hands-on learning experience that introduces them to the field’s central concept—how mechanics, electronics and computers are integrated in today’s manufacturing settings,” said David Lorenz, assistant professor of electronics/mechatronics/robotics.

“The program is committed to preparing students to be successful in the workplace as leaders and members of a team.”

Following successful completion of the degree, students can enter the workforce or transfer credits to another college or university to attain a four-year degree in mechatronics.

“This curriculum will prepare students to become mechanical operators, mechanical service technicians, maintenance and manufacturing technicians, robot product consultants in the fields of electronics, mechanics, software tech, math, physics and medicine,” Lorenz said.

Research of the college’s service area showed there is a need for mechatronics technicians.

“The mechatronics degree is a natural extension of educational opportunities already provided by PDCCC through its industrial technology and robotics programs. Nineteen credits of the existing Robotics Career Studies Certificate will be applicable to the mechatronics degree,” added Lorenz.

Registration is under way, with classes beginning Jan. 9. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

For more information, contact Lorenz, dlorenz@pdc.edu or 569-6745; or Antoinette Johnson, dean of occupational/technical programs, ajohnson@pdc.edu or 569-6772.