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Mechatronics

Where Machines Come to Life

Have you ever wondered how a production line knows when to move a part, stop a conveyor, or sort a product? That’s Mechatronics at work!

Mechatronics brings together mechanical systems, electronics, controls, and automation to make machines work smarter. From robotic equipment to automated manufacturing systems, mechatronics technicians help keep the technology we rely on moving.

Think of Iron Man. Tony Stark combines mechanical design, electronics, sensors, and computer controls to bring his suit to life. That same mix of technologies is at the heart of mechatronics. Want to learn more? Watch Jake Voorhees explain the field in “What Do Mechatronics Engineers Do? Can Mechatronics Engineers Build Robots?” on The 1% Engineer Show.

At Oakland Community College’s Auburn Hills Campus, you’ll get hands-on experience with fluid power, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and integrated systems. You’ll also build troubleshooting skills as you learn to identify problems, work with equipment, and keep systems running at their best.

If you enjoy working with your hands, figuring out how things work, and solving real-world problems, mechatronics can help you turn that curiosity into practical technical skills and exciting career opportunities.

Are you ready to unleash your inner Iron Man? Your journey starts at OCC!

What is Mechatronics?

 

Two Stackable Certificates

Learning Mechatronics starts in the Fall, when all classes for the first certificate (Certificate of Achievement) are offered. Keep going with classes for the second certificate. Every semester we offer some additional classes for the Certificate of Completion. 

Mechatronics Certificate of Completion (MCT.CA)

Add these courses to the five in the first certificate, for a 33-credit program:

  • Advanced Fluid Power
  • Industrial Controls
  • Shop Floor Networking
  • Mechanical Drives I
  • Mechanical Drives II
  • Motor Controls

Mechatronics Certificate of Achievement (MCT.CT)

Take five classes, for a total of 14 credits:

  • Industrial Safety
  • Fluid Power Systems
  • Integrated Systems
  • Programmable Controller Applications
  • General Predictive Maintenance

Look Inside the Mechatronics Lab

Program Highlights

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Auburn Hills | All mechatronics classes meet on the Auburn Hills campus. 
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Math Makes Sense | You need the math, so we teach it in a way that makes sense for how you will use it. 
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One Semester | You may be able to complete the certificate of achievement in one semester, depending on your other responsibilities.
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Evening | All classes offered at or after 5 p.m. Work a day job and learn in the evenings (M-Th).

 

A Job with Industry

These certificates prepare you to work as an industrial maintenance technician, industrial machinery maintenance worker, or industrial machinery mechanic.

OCC’s Mechatronics program builds skills for careers such as industrial maintenance technician, machinery maintenance worker, and industrial machinery mechanic. Michigan projects 13% employment growth for industrial machinery mechanics from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 1,900 job openings each year statewide. These openings include both new positions and opportunities created when workers change occupations or leave the workforce.

Source: Michigan Center for Data and Analytics, 2026 Manufacturing Workforce Analysis
 
Bureau of Labor Statistics

Get Started Today! 

Begin your studies with these steps:

  • Apply to OCC. If you’re not already an OCC student, create a profile and complete our online application.
  • On the application, select ‘Mechatronics.’
  • Existing OCC students: Update your academic program using the Change of Program Form. 

Continue to an Associate Degree, Maybe Beyond

Your credits can become part of an associate degree in technological sciences, or take you further. All your certificate courses can be applied to the Technological Sciences Associate in Applied Science Degree.

Even if you’re not sure a degree is in your future, this certificate opens that door for the day your plans change. 

Prepare to Transfer – Even if You Are Not Planning to Today! 

Maximize your OCC-applicable credits upon transfer. Plan early and work with an OCC counselor or advisor throughout your OCC experience. If you pursue an associate in applied science, you may satisfy the Michigan Transfer Agreement by taking as few as four additional courses. Save time, money and aggravation!

Whatever your program of study, OCC has many Transfer Credit Agreements with colleges and universities to help you navigate your way to a bachelor's degree. View the College Transfer Success Guide for more information.

Contact Information

Robert Williams
Mechatronics Faculty
Phone: (248) 232-4516 

Location

Auburn Hills Campus (Driving Directions)
2900 Featherstone Rd
Auburn Hills, MI 48326-2845

More to Explore

Considering Mechatronics? You might also be interested in these programs: