Mechanical Engineering Technology, AAS
The mechanical engineering technician may be involved with a variety of tasks on the job. These tasks might involve preparing design specifications, production analysis, and the installation, maintenance, and operation of machines, tools, products, and devices used in manufacturing, processing or power generation. Other job functions may include working as a laboratory assistant, designer, estimator, or technical sales.
Although most mechanical engineering technicians find jobs in manufacturing industries, they may also work for government agencies or in research and development activities. Jobs may be situated in the production shop, the design engineering offices, research laboratories, in the field traveling to on-site locations, or in technical sales.
The individual that has an interest in knowing how things work, determining how things may work better, and who has an interest in problem solving may find Mechanical Engineering Technology an appropriate career choice. The individual should also have an interest in and aptitude for mathematics and science.
The student in Mechanical Engineering Technology will study engineering drawing, mechanical design technology, machine design technology, and materials science. The student will also be introduced to computer-aided drafting, industrial electricity and electronics, alternative energy, and manufacturing processes. In addition, this program is the first two years of the North Central State College Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology.
The Associate of Applied Sciences degree is awarded upon completion of this program.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this program, graduate will:
- Demonstrate the use of computer aided engineering design, suing 2D and 3D drawings, sketching and solid modeling.
- Properly select materials based on their physical properties.
- Properly select machine elements using analysis of stress and properties for structure, frames, beams, and columns.
- Demonstrate an understanding of fluid mechanics.
- Demonstrate basic understanding of industrial electricity applied to power, circuits and programming controllers.
- Work in teams to apply critical thinking skills and engineering concepts to complete real world projects.
- Apply computer programming that generates code to operate robotic equipment.
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Program Educational Objectives (EO)
Program educational objectives are broad statements that describe what graduates are expected to attain within a few years after graduation. Program educational objectives are based on the needs of the program’s constituencies (i.e., students, alumni, employers of our students, and faculty of the program), including being able to:
EO1 – Be successfully employed in a mechanical engineering technology-related field capable of earning promotions, professional registration/licensing, certification, and another career recognition;
EO2 – Be effective in the understanding and application of mechanical engineering technology principles;
EO3 – Effectively communicate, work, and lead cross-functional teams;
EO4 – Expand their technical knowledge through professional development, continuing education, or the pursuit of a graduate degree;
EO5 – Conduct their work within the accepted standards of professional integrity and ethics standards.
Student Outcomes (SO)
Student outcomes describe what students are expected to know and be able to do by the time of graduation. These relate to the knowledge, skills, and behaviors that students acquire as they progress through the program, including:
SO1 – an ability to design systems, components, or processes meeting specified needs for broadly-defined engineering problems appropriate to the discipline;
SO2 – an ability to apply written, oral, and graphical communication in broadly – defined technical and non-technical environments; and an ability to identify and use appropriate technical literature;
SO3 – an ability to conduct standard tests, measurements, and experiments and to analyze and interpret the results to improve processes;
SO4 – an ability to function effectively as a member as well as a leader on technical teams;
SO5 – an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and Mathematics.
Where You Could Go
Manufacturing plants, engineering firms, government agencies, mining, and materials production all hire MECT graduates.
NC State has over 40 agreements with four-year colleges and universities, to provide a smooth transition for students who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Through university partnerships, some four-year courses are also offered on the NC State campus or online.
Job Demand
Graduates of these programs have had no trouble finding excellent employment opportunities in our area. The programs are not narrowly focused; this offers greater flexibility in meeting the changing career opportunities in today’s job market.