Mechatronics Engineering Technology (Robotics and Automation)

Behind every automated packing line and robotic welding cell is a technologist who can wire it, program it and fix it. Assiniboine College’s Mechatronics Engineering Technology (Robotics & Automation) is a three-year diploma taught in the mechatronics labs at the North Hill campus in Brandon.

Year one builds the foundations with Basic Electrical Systems, Advanced Electrical Systems, Electronics Lab, Digital Fundamentals & PLC, Physics, Technical Math 1 and Technical Math 2, Programming Fundamentals and Foundations of Drawings. Year two moves into Automation Systems, Motor Control, Pneumatics & Hydraulic, Robotics 1, Mechatronic Systems 1 and 2, Integrated Automation and Computer Aided Design 1. Year three covers Robotics 2, Robotics and Vision Systems, Process Control Technologies, Internet of Things, Cloud and Manufacturing, Mechanics & Machine Elements and Manufacturing Processes, ending with a Capstone Proposal and Capstone Project.

Most learning happens hands-on with programmable logic controllers, industrial robots, motor controls, microprocessor-based systems, pneumatic and hydraulic rigs and vision systems. The programme follows the Siemens Mechatronics Systems Certification Program, and students can earn Siemens Level 1 and Level 2 certification after successfully completing years two and three. An optional co-op placement in year two, Co-op Work Placement - MENGT, offers at least 600 hours of full-time, paid, related work experience, and Codes and Practices and Professionalism & Ethics prepare students for regulated industrial workplaces.

Graduates work as industrial automation technicians, robotics technicians, instrumentation and controls technicians, field service technicians and maintenance technicians in food processing, manufacturing, agriculture equipment and mining. The diploma suits students who are strong in applied maths and enjoy troubleshooting machines as much as writing code for them.