You may be asking yourself, “What exactly is Mechatronics?”

"Mechatronics" is a term originally coined by Japanese engineer Tetsuro Mori in 1969 to explain the integration of mechanical and electronic components coordinated by a control system. Mechatronics is centered on the disciplines of mechanics, electronics, controls and computers, which when combined make possible the simpler, more economical, reliable and versatile commercial and industrial products. Industrial applications are becoming increasingly multidisciplinary, requiring engineers and technicians to develop skills in a variety of disciplines to succeed in today’s workforce. Mechatronics courses combine these various disciplines to teach students a holistic approach to developing solutions for engineering applications and improving their problem solving abilities.

What You’ll Do

• Apply knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering theory and methods to the design of automation, intelligent systems, smart devices or industrial systems control

• Create mechanical design documents for parts, assemblies or finished products

• Analyze existing development or manufacturing procedures and suggest improvements

• Research, select and apply sensors, communication technologies or control devices for motion control, position sensing, pressure sensing or electronic communication

• Design, develop or implement control circuits and algorithms for electromechanical and pneumatic devices or systems

• Design engineering systems for the automation of industrial tasks

• Design advanced electronic control systems for mechanical systems

• Design mechatronics components for computer-controlled products such as cameras, video recorders, automobiles and airplanes

• Apply mechatronic or automated solutions to the transfer of materials, components or finished goods

TSTC’s Star Power Prep

• Five semesters of intensive training in lab settings utilizing the software and equipment used by industry professionals, along with the academics and support courses you need to succeed 

• Small class size with a strong one-on-one instructional approach

• Opportunities to gain real hands-on experience by competing in robotics competitions, as well as through an internship or co-ops

• Experienced staff with industry training guided by an advisory board comprised of field experts

Faculty

TSTC’s faculty bring to the college years of professional experience in their respective occupations.

Having worked in the field themselves, they know just what employers are seeking and how to equip you with the skills needed to succeed.  

The Mechatronics program was actually created by involved faculty that saw the need for a blended-hybrid program to incorporate curriculum from three of TSTC’s programs; Automation, Electronics, and Instrumentation; to provide industry with a more capable and diversely qualified technician.

Job Credibility 

Students in the Mechatronics program not only learn theory of electronics, instrumentation and robotics, but also have the added advantage of applying those skills to teach others, including area children.

Mechatronics students organize robotics competitions with area high schools and regularly participate in TSTC recruitment activities. They have participated in events to showcase the state-of-the-art technology they develop by teaching robotics concepts and sharing their imaginative creations with the community. What’s cooler than a robot designed to look and act like a dinosaur?  

This, combined with internships and co-ops, gives them a distinct advantage over typical college graduates.

Small Class Size

At TSTC, our classes average 20 students to ensure instructors have plenty of time to work with them individually.

Hands-on Learning

Compared to other colleges, TSTC students spend a lot less time in the classroom and much more time in work settings, operating the instruments they will use in their respective fields. Students are engaged more than 60 percent of their time in performing the actual work they will do upon graduation. It’s just one of the many ways TSTC ensures you get the depth of instruction you need to succeed in your Mechatronics career.

Mechatronics students regularly participate in and organize robotics competitions to improve their abilities by developing customized robots and teaching the community about the skills they have gained at TSTC.

Advisory Committee

TSTC’s strong programs match industry needs, making it easier for graduates to obtain positions when the time comes to move out into the workforce.

Education by employer design! 

As industry professionals, our advisory committees assist the college in determining the courses you study, providing a valuable advantage. They can ensure that what we teach matches what industry is seeking.

There are compelling reasons why employers are attracted to TSTC graduates:

• More than 60 percent of your class time is spent on actual hands-on work in lab settings.

• Your internship opportunities in actual working environments provide on-the-job experience that is valued by industry employers.

• Paid internships at Austin’s Sematech Advanced Technology Development Facility expose you to a variety of Mechatronics positions.