Stackable Credential Program For Mechatronics Technicians
Germanna has received a National Science Foundation grant to build a stackable credential pathway in Mechatronics. This grant will enable students to start with entry-level certifications and progress to an associate degree.
Grant Highlights
Funding: $348,228 (2024–2027)
Period of Performance: September 15, 2024 through August 31, 2027
Leaders: Harry Schoeller (PI), Ken Jaskowiak (Co-PI)
What is Mechatronics?
Mechatronics technicians work with cutting-edge technology to design, build, and maintain systems that combine mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. Our program prepares students for careers in manufacturing, automation, robotics, and more.
Program Goals
Goal 1: Create a G3 Mechatronics Program
Create a clear, stackable credential pathway aligned with Virginia’s G3 initiative, enabling students to progress from entry-level certifications to advanced technician education.
Goal 2: Build a Student Pipeline
Expand the Mechatronics talent pipeline by launching dual enrollment partnerships with high schools and hosting monthly outreach events.
Goal 3: Enhance Program
Enhance institutional capacity by integrating industry-recognized certifications, improving lab facilities, and embedding advisory board feedback into the curriculum.
Goal 1: Expand the Current Program
Level 1
Technology in Mechatronics
Available Now
Level 2
Advanced Technology in Mechatronics
Starting Spring 2026
Level 3
Mechatronics Associate of Applied Science
Starting Fall 2026
Goal 2: Build a Student Pipeline
Dual Enrollment Mechatronics Program (Full Year)
Program: Technology in Mechatronics (Level 1)
Prerequisites: MDE10 (Algebra I)
Grade Restriction: 12th Grade
Format: In-person at Fredericksburg Campus (fully supervised)
Schedule: Monday to Thursday, 8-11 a.m., fall and spring semesters
Courses
- SDV 101 (1 cr)
College Success Skills - IND 295 (4 cr)
Topics in Industrial Engineering Tech - MEC 113 (3 cr)
Materials and Processes of Industry - ETR 113 (4 cr)
AC/DC Electricity Fundamentals I - SAF 127 (2 cr)
Industrial Safety - CAD 201 (3 cr)
Computer Aided Design I
| Day | Time | Course |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 8-9:20 a.m. | MEC 113: Materials and Processes of Industry |
| 9:30-10:20 a.m. | SDV 101: Student Development | |
| 10:30-10:50 a.m. | Office Hours/Study Hall | |
| Tuesday | 8-9:20 a.m. | ETR 113: AC/DC Fundamentals I (Lecture) |
| 9:30-10:50 a.m. | ETR 113: AC/DC Fundamentals I (Lab) | |
| Wednesday | 8-9:20 a.m. | MEC 113: Materials and Processes of Industry |
| 9:30-10:50 a.m. | Office Hours/Study Hall | |
| Thursday | 8-9:20 a.m. | ETR 113: AC/DC Fundamentals I (Lecture) |
| 9:30-10:50 a.m. | ETR 113: AC/DC Fundamentals I (Lab) |
Outreach & Recruiting Activities
| Event | Organization | Date & Time |
|---|---|---|
| Soldering Workshop | Future Kings | January 25, 9-11 a.m. |
| CTE Career Night | FCPS | February 27, 5:30-7:30 p.m. |
| DE Academy Recruiting | James Monroe HS | March 17, 1-2 p.m. |
| Soldering Workshop | Academic Scholars Insistute | March 22, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. |
| Robotics and Electronics Activities | Lee Hill Elementary | April 2 |
| STEAM-H Day | Public | April 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
| EGR/EGR Tech Night | Public | April 11, 7-8:30 p.m. |
| Career GPS - Stafford Airport | SCPS | April 23, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
| Robotics Workshop | Future Kings | May 10, 9-11 a.m. |
| Robotics Workshop | ASI | June 3, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. |
| Summer Camp | Public | July 21-24, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. |
Goal 3: Enhance Program
Embedded Industry Credentials
- Manufacturing Technician Level 1 (MT1)
- OSHA 10
- AutoCAD Certified User (ACU)
Experiential Learning
Allen Bradley PLC Training System