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Program Overview
Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary branch of engineering that combines elements of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and control engineering. The primary goal of a Mechatronics technician is to design, install, maintain, and repair complex machinery and systems that integrate mechanical components with electronics and computer control.
Working Conditions
Mechatronics Technicians work in diverse industrial settings, facing a mix of office work and hands-on tasks in manufacturing or labs. Conditions vary based on industry and projects; manufacturing may involve noisy factory floors and cleanrooms for delicate electronics. Office tasks include system design, programming, and documentation. Collaboration with engineers and professionals is common, requiring attendance at meetings and teamwork. The role demands adaptability, technical expertise, and a commitment to ensuring complex mechatronic systems' functionality and efficiency, often requiring flexibility for urgent issues or system malfunctions during regular working hours.
Training
- 5-year training program
- 9,136 hours of on-the-job training
- 864 hours of paid related instruction
- Transition-to-Trainer Course in the final year of the apprenticeship
As an apprentice, you will be taught theory and practice related to integration, programming, testing, commissioning and maintenance of automated systems. Instruction is primarily lab based and incorporates electrical fabrication and programming of automated industrial controls and robots.
Learn more from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
Program Details
Mechatronics Technician Apprenticeship courses are offered at the Madison Truax campus.
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Curriculum and Experience
Prospective program students, the information below reflects the basic requirements for students admitted for the 2024-2025 academic year. To learn more about Madison College, visit us.
Current and newly admitted program students, go directly to your Degree Progress Report to view:
- Progress toward your specific requirements
- Alternative (in lieu of) courses to meet specific requirements
If you have questions after reviewing your degree progress report (advisement report), please see Advising Services.
First SemesterSecond SemesterThird SemesterFourth SemesterFifth SemesterSixth SemesterSeventh SemesterEighth Semester -
Admission
How to Apply
Industrial electrician apprenticeships applicants must find an apprenticeship with a sponsoring employer on their own (similar to looking for a job). Once the applicant has found a position, the employer starts the apprenticeship registration process by contacting a Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards (BAS) Representative for their county.
Application Requirements
- Applicants must be at least 18 years of age
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Entry requirements vary by employers
- Physically able to perform trade
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Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship are prepared to work in the following areas:
- System Integration: Integrating mechanical components, sensors, actuators, and control systems to create efficient and functional mechatronic systems.
- Programming and Control: Writing and implementing software programs to control the operation of mechatronic systems. This involves programming microcontrollers, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and other control devices.
- Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Conducting regular maintenance activities and troubleshooting issues in mechatronic systems to ensure optimal performance. This may involve diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical, or software-related problems.
- Testing and Validation: Performing tests to validate the functionality and performance of mechatronic systems. This includes conducting tests for reliability, efficiency, and safety.
- Collaboration: Collaborating with engineers from different disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, to ensure seamless integration of components in mechatronic systems.
- Robotics: In some cases, Mechatronics technicians may work on the design, programming, and maintenance of robotic systems, which are a common application of mechatronics.
- Instrumentation: Installing and maintaining sensors and instrumentation devices that collect data for monitoring and controlling mechatronic systems.
- Documentation: Creating and maintaining documentation related to mechatronic systems, including technical specifications, manuals, and reports.
