Why Mechatronics Engineers and Technicians Are Vital in the 21st Century
Mechatronics engineers and technicians are vital in the 21sr Century. Not long ago, the term “tech” referred to a technician, someone who kept complex industrial machinery and control systems in working order. These professionals wore hard hats and weren’t afraid to get their hands dirty while climbing over and under industrial equipment to ensure smooth operations.
The Evolving Role of “Tech” Jobs
When Representative Rohit Khanna of California’s 17th Congressional District proposed bringing “tech” jobs to Eastern Kentucky, an area struggling with the decline of the coal industry, it initially seemed promising. However, upon closer examination, “tech” in this context referred to writing application software for companies like Apple and Google, not maintaining or repairing industrial equipment.
While coding offers opportunities for economic growth, the misconception that blue-collar workers are being entirely replaced by robots overlooks a critical question: When robots take over the world, who will keep them running?
The Rise of Mechatronics and Technicians in Industrial Automation
Although robots are now performing many repetitive assembly line tasks, they have also created new career opportunities in the field of mechatronics. This field combines mechanics and electronics, focusing on designing and maintaining automated industrial equipment, such as mechanical manipulators and robots.
Key competencies for mechatronics engineers and technicians include:
• Electronic control systems
• Sensor technology
• Electromechanics
• Hydraulics and pneumatics
• Electrical power distribution
Applications in the Real World
Many mechatronics professionals work for companies like Advanced Technology Services, Inc. (ATS), which designs, maintains, and supports industrial robotics and plant automation systems. ATS employees often operate directly at customer facilities, performing preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and equipment repairs.
Becoming a successful mechatronics technician requires hands-on experience and a strong foundation in critical skills. This is where tools like the electronics kits from PRESSON Circuit Modules, Inc. come into play. These kits, along with supporting documentation and courseware, provide foundational knowledge in areas such as:
• Transducers and sensors
• Signal conditioning circuitry
• Wireless communication
• Microcontroller-based control systems
How PRESSON Supports the Future of Mechatronics and Education
By assembling PRESSON kits and completing lab exercises, prospective technicians gain valuable practice in soldering and executing detailed assembly and testing procedures. These skills are essential for excelling in the growing field of mechatronics and ensuring the continued operation of automated systems.
Conclusion: The Critical Need for Mechatronics Engineers and Technicians
As industries become increasingly automated, the demand for skilled mechatronics engineers and technicians will only grow. These professionals are indispensable for designing, maintaining, and repairing the systems that keep modern industries running.
Interested in exploring mechatronics? Learn more about us at PRESSON Circuit Modules and how we prepare the next generation of technicians.
