Blinn College opens enrollment for fall mechatronics classes in Waller

Students can earn an occupational skills award in just one semester on their way to an associate degree

May 14, 2024

The Blinn College District is bringing state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing training to Waller, Texas.

Beginning this fall, students can earn an occupational skills award, Level-1 and Level-2 certificates, and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in mechatronics at the new Blinn College-Waller Campus. Blinn’s Mechatronics Program will complement its convenient online lectures with lab experiences that emphasize hands-on learning opportunities.

At Blinn’s state-of-the-art mechatronics lab, Waller Campus students will receive training on FluidPower, electricity system, MechLab Mechatronics Training System, mechanical systems, sensor equipment training, and industrial motor controls workstations, as well as universal robotic arms and programmable logic controllers trainers.

“We are proud to open the doors for students at our Waller Campus to access the exciting opportunities available in advanced manufacturing and mechatronics,” said Max Hibbs, Dean of Engineering, Computer Technology, and Innovation. “Our commitment to providing cutting-edge training ensures that our graduates are not only well prepared to meet the challenges of today’s job market but also are well-positioned to lead the industries of tomorrow.”

Mechatronics is a branch of engineering that integrates mechanical, electrical, electronic, and software engineering with robotics, computer science, telecommunications, systems, control, and product engineering. Through Blinn’s Mechatronics Program, students learn to install, maintain, diagnose, and repair robotic and automated manufacturing systems.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electromechanical and mechatronics technologists and technicians earned a median salary of $65,080 per year in 2023. Mechatronics is a growing field in Harris and Waller counties and students with these skills will find themselves in high demand by employers.

Blinn’s four credentials are stackable, meaning that students can earn each award as they progress toward their AAS degree. Students can earn their 9-credit-hour Occupational Skills Award in Mechatronics in just one semester and earn their Level-1 certificate, Level-2 certificate, and AAS degree in subsequent semesters. Courses cover machine design, computer-integrated manufacturing, electromechanical systems, advanced programmable logic controllers, industrial electronics, microcomputer control, instrumentation and safety, industrial maintenance, industrial automation, digital systems, robotics, and more.

The fall semester begins Wednesday, Aug. 21, and registration is now open for Blinn’s summer and fall terms. To learn more about Blinn’s Mechatronics Program, visit www.blinn.edu/mechatronics. To learn more about the Blinn-Waller Campus, visit www.blinn.edu/waller.