Mechanical engineering technology education prepares individuals to pursue a variety of technical careers within the field of manufacturing such as mechanical engineering technicians and technologists. Students acquire a mechanic orientation and the ability to solve complex mechanical problems. Individuals learn to work efficiently with their hands and minds. Manufacturing engineering technology programs concentrate on automated processes with manufacturing as well as handing materials using a variety of computerized equipment.
An associate's degree in mechanical engineering technology enables students to gain a strong understanding of engineering principles. Common coursework includes courses in chemistry, physics, thermodynamics, calculus, circuits, computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing. Students acquire a set of professional skills such as the ability to use computer aided design software to design prototypes, evaluating the quality of materials that are commonly used by consumers and recording their tasks according to specific guidelines. Graduates of associate's degrees in mechanical engineering technology are prepared for a variety of entry-level careers in many different fields such as manufacturing and robotics.
A bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering technology provides more in-depth instruction on the design, improvement and evaluation of machinery. These programs focus a great deal on technology, mathematics, physics and mechanics. Common coursework often includes physics, thermodynamics, computer aided design, fluid mechanics, evaluation of materials, applied mechanics and advanced mathematics. Students learn how to design, manufacture, test and enhance many different types of machines. Graduates of a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering technology are prepared for a variety of careers within the mechanical engineering technology field such as a mechanical engineering technician.
Mechanical engineering technicians assist mechanical engineers with a variety of tasks such as designing, creating, testing and manufacturing of consumer products, industrial machines and other related equipment. They often help with a variety of tests to evaluate the quality of products. Creating diagrams and sketches, recording and evaluating data, making estimates and calculations and document their results are common tasks of mechanical engineering technicians. They often estimate the required space, labor costs and other variables of creating equipment. Some mechanical engineering technicians work to engineers to assist in finding solutions for issues related to production.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the employment of mechanical engineering technicians is projected to experience little to no change in employment throughout the 2008 to 2018 decade. The demand for mechanical engineering technicians will decrease due to the increase in foreign competition in manufacturing and design services.