Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation

Program Overview

CIP Code: 15.0403

The Academy’s Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation program prepares students for rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing, industrial automation, and related technologies. This hands-on program combines electrical engineering, mechanical systems, computer programming, and process control to develop well-rounded problem solvers ready for the fast-paced world of integrated technology. Students will gain practical knowledge and skills in industrial electricity, hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical drive systems, electronics, sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robotics, and coding. Through project-based learning, students will ...design, build, and troubleshoot automated systems, such as robotic arms, conveyor systems, and sensor-driven feedback loops, simulating real-world industry challenges. Emphasizing collaboration, students will work in teams, assume leadership roles, and focus on system design, testing, and optimization while adhering to safety standards and precision. Key topics include logic control, robotics integration, and preventive maintenance to ensure smooth system performance. This program also provides students the opportunity to practice procedures that meets industry standards while encouraging critical thinking, teamwork, and technical proficiency. Upon completion, students can pursue higher education in fields such as mechatronics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, process control, and robotics or enter the workforce in roles like automation technician, industrial maintenance technician, process technician, or robotics integration specialist.



Mechatronics instructor working
Tyler Snyder

Tyler Snyder

Instructor

Enrollment Process

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Instructor Biography

Tyler J. Snyder brings over 20 years of hands-on technical and leadership experience to his role as a Mechatronics Instructor at Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology.

Mr. Snyder served in multiple technical leadership roles across several Army units, including the 10th Mountain Division, 300th MP Company, and the 303rd Ordnance Battalion. His military career included responsibilities such as managing the maintenance and repair of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electronic systems, programming and troubleshooting unmanned / hand launched aircraft, Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) robots, and directing large maintenance teams under high-pressure ...operational conditions in regions across the globe. He was also responsible for ensuring strict compliance with OSHA and environmental safety regulations.

Following his military service, Mr. Snyder earned his Associate of Science and Technology Degree in Advanced Manufacturing Technology from the Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology (CPI). Since then, he has applied his expertise in the classroom, where he instructs students in electrical circuits, motor control systems, PLC programming, ladder logic, and fluid power systems including hydraulics and pneumatics.

Mr. Snyder holds multiple technical certifications and is skilled in hydraulic and pneumatic troubleshooting, structural and pipe welding, commercial/residential electrical systems, robotics, automation, and HVAC repair. He is passionate about preparing students for successful careers in the skilled trades by emphasizing hands-on learning, critical thinking, and a strong team-oriented mindset.



Certifications

OSHA 10 Hour Safety
Ladder/Fall Safety
JLG Elevated Work Platform
JLG Tele-handler

Employer Partners

Not provided.

Possible Careers

You’ll be able to land an entry-level job wherever there is automation. Those kinds of jobs include robot installation and maintenance, automation equipment installation, troubleshooting and maintenance and PLC programming. You’ll know how to install, maintain and repair the mechanical, controls, fluid power systems, electrical and electronic equipment found in a bunch of different of fields. Plus, your mechatronics training will equip you to make sure HVAC, mechanical, electrical and computer driven systems run.

Required Items

Not provided.

Dual Enrollment Opportunities

Penn College Dual Enrollment:
EET114: Introduction to Digital Electronics - 3 credits
EET115: Digital Circuits Applications - 1 credits
EET116: Electronic Circuits and Devices I - 5 credits
EET124: Engineering, Technology, and Society - 3 credits

Career & Technical Student Organization

Advanced Manufacturing Club

Schedule

Level 1 & 2 students 9:20-11:40, Level 2 & 3 Students 12:40-2:50

Task Grid

Post-Secondary Opportunities

Not provided.