Mechanical Design Technology

Formula SAE Car

The associate of applied science degree with specialization in mechanical design technology is designed to equip students with one of the most sought-after technical skills in this area – mechanical drafting and CAD. This program is representative of the highly technological demands of business and industry and maintains its leading edge with assistance from qualified representatives of industry on current mechanical design practices and future trends. Course work within the program includes manufacturing processes, strength of materials, computer-aided drafting, computer-aided manufacturing, geometric dimensioning, and tolerancing and solid modeling.

Students will gain the knowledge and ability to determine part specifications, dimensioning techniques, manufacturing processes and strength of materials through vigorous application-based projects. The students will achieve a thorough understanding of drafting fundamentals and proceed to computer-aided drafting and computer-aided manufacturing.

Mechanical design technologists may work in many areas, including product design and development and manufacturing and production for organizations ranging from large multi-national corporations to small local shops. The demand for qualified CAD operators has exploded as companies take advantage of this progressive technology. Graduates of this program will be prepared for entry-level employment in the following areas:

• CAD operator/designer
• Tool and die drafter
• Layout drafter
• Product drafter
• Detailer
• Engineering technician
• Basic machinist
• CAD/CAM operator
• Research and development technician
• Technical sales representative

In addition to completion of the required general education courses, students desiring the program designation on their transcript must complete the required core and specialized courses.