Program at a Glance
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 you for careers in manufacturing, automation, robotics, and more.
Watch our video to get a closer look.
New: NSF Grant to Expand Opportunities
We’ve received a National Science Foundation grant to build a stackable credential pathway in Mechatronics. This means you’ll soon be able 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)
Program Goals
Goal 1: Create 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.
Program Pathway: Stackable Credentials
Level 1
Technology in Mechatronics
Available Now
This level prepares you to earn your Manufacturing Technician 1, OSHA 10, and AutoCAD Certified User credentials.
Level 2
Advanced Technology in Mechatronics
Spring 2026
Level 3
Mechatronics Associate of Applied Science
Fall 2026
This degree prepares you to transfer to an eligible partner to earn your Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology.
Get started in high school with Dual Enrollment
Our Technology in Mechatronics (Level 1) program offers a full-year, in-person learning experience designed to give you a solid foundation in Mechatronics technology.
Prerequisites: MDE10 (Algebra I)
Grade Restriction: 12th Grade
Format: In-person at the Fredericksburg Area Campus (fully supervised)
Schedule: Monday to Thursday, 8-11 a.m., fall and spring semesters
Courses
- SDV 101: College Success Skills (1 cr)
- IND 295: Topics in Industrial Engineering Tech (4 cr)
- MEC 113: Materials and Processes of Industry (3 cr)
- ETR 113: AC/DC Electricity Fundamentals I (4 cr)
- SAF 127: Industrial Safety (2 cr)
- CAD 201: Computer Aided Design I (3 cr)
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. |
Industry Certifications & Labs
Our program includes certifications that employers value:
- Manufacturing Technician Level 1 (MT1)
- OSHA 10
- AutoCAD Certified User (ACU)
Students gain experience using professional equipment like the Allen Bradley PLC Training System, preparing them for real-world jobs.
A Germanna G3 Program
Germanna's Mechatronics program is included in G3, which provides tuition assistance for any Virginia resident who:
- Qualifies for in-state tuition
- Has a total household income of less than or equal to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Is enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours at Germanna in a designated Germanna G3 program
- Has applied for federal and/or state financial aid
How G3 works
G3 program funds make up the difference between what federal or state financial aid pays for and the cost of tuition, fees, and books for the program.
Meet the Makers of Tomorrow
Watch our video to hear what our students have to say about Germanna's Mechatronics programs.
