In the Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology (SMT) program, students will learn the skills required to work in many facets of the semiconductor manufacturing industry as technicians. Students will gain the competencies to calibrate and maintain production equipment, run the chip production processes, work in quality assurance and quality control, and test chips to ensure their capabilities meet specifications. Additionally, they will gain an understanding of the underlying scientific and engineering principles that support the manufacturing process, giving them robust employment opportunities after graduation.

Mechatronics is a multifaceted field that utilizes many areas of mechanics including electronics automation computers hydraulics programmable logic controllers electrical systems and mechanical systems. The Mechatronics program is designed to prepare students for employment as entry-level technicians and emphasizes extensive practical experience in both theory and laboratory settings using mock-up equipment and assemblies similar to those found in the industry. Instruction includes theory troubleshooting and hands-on application in mechatronic concepts and principles programmable logic controllers pneumatics AC and DC electrical systems and motor controls.

Successful completion of both the Mechatronics Program and Industrial Mechanic/Millwright Program and associated general education coursework will lead to an Advanced Technical Certificate or A.A.S. Degree in Mechatronics.

Building our professional semiconductor manufacturing workforce nationwide, the Next Generation Microelectronics Research Center (NGeM) provides world-class undergraduate and graduate education programs and research across the field of microelectronics.

University of Idaho College of Engineering students and faculty engage in industry-sponsored research projects funded by Micron, the National Science Foundation and U.S. Department of Defense, among others. Our graduates go on to careers that revitalize domestic memory chip manufacturing and mediate supply chain issues in the U.S.

Training and certificate programs offer integrated expertise in microelectronic device design, fabrication and packaging, cybersecurity, plant safety, and related technologies, such as semiconductor physics, electrochemistry, corrosion, and their applications for semiconductor industry.

The center provides an interdisciplinary workspace for STEM education across all disciplines in engineering and science.

The Mechatronics Engineering Technology degree at the College of Eastern Idaho prepares students to enter the workforce after graduation. Most graduates work in careers operating and maintaining electro-mechanical systems found in automated or robotically controlled environments. 

Mechatronics is an interdisciplinary field that combines elements of mechanics, engineering, machining, controls, programming, robotics, and electronics. It synergizes these diverse fields to keep production lines, manufacturing floors, and industrial processes working smoothly and efficiently. 

What will I learn in the program?

Students enter the Mechatronic Engineering Technology (MET) Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program after completion of the Energy Systems certificate program. In that program they learn the basics of DC (Direct Current) and AC (Alternating Current) electronic circuits, digital circuits, motor controls and wiring, and process control thus laying a solid foundation for success in the Mechatronics program. 

Upon acceptance into the MET program students learn basic computer programming, robotic theory, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human Machine Interface), VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives), electronic circuits, mechanical principles, hydraulics, pneumatics, and automation. The final semester allows the student to integrate all prior learning into fully automated mechatronics systems. 

Are you fascinated by the convergence of electronics, mechanics, and robotics? The Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program at College of Western Idaho (CWI) is crafted to develop specialists in this exciting field. This program equips students with skills in electronics, mechanics, pneumatics, robotics, wireless communication, renewable energy, instrumentation, and industry-computerized control systems. Ideal for careers in manufacturing, food processing, bio-medical, energy production, and more, mechatronics is a gateway to a myriad of tech jobs.

Unique to this program is the acceptance of Idaho Skillstack® badges, allowing students to apply up to 15 credits of mechatronics-related skills toward their degree. This flexibility lets students customize their skills or enable industry-customized training. Graduates of the Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program emerge with a broad set of technical skills, making them highly marketable in a society increasingly reliant on automation and high-tech equipment.

Micron’s registered apprenticeship program utilizes the “earn while you learn" model which provides apprentices hands-on, on-the-job training while also affording them the flexibility to complete their education at the same time. Apprentices must enroll in an approved technical related certificate or 2-year associate degree. Apprentices can work as a Process Technician, Equipment Technician, or a Lab Technician, depending on the location of their apprenticeship with Micron. We currently offer apprenticeships at our Idaho and Virginia fabs with plans to expand into other locations in the US.

Apprentices receive competitive wages, progressive wage increases, health benefits, and tuition fees are covered by Micron. This program is registered with the Department of Labor and upon completion, apprentices receive a nationally recognized credential they can take anywhere.

The Automation Engineering Technology Program is a hands-on, technical program designed to provide students with the necessary skills to obtain a position in the manufacturing industry. Manufacturing is very broad and encompasses many different industries and sectors; like food processing, automobiles, paper and plastic manufacturers, etc. To manufacture something is to make something. No matter where you look you are using items that have been manufactured. Automation is the key to the future for manufacturing and people are needed to create and maintain the automation process. Students will learn about PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human Machine Interface), electronics, circuits, and automation and process control theories. If you like making things, this degree program is for you. In our laboratory we have a variety of equipment that is used in the local manufacturing industry as well as offering a variety of internships to gain real world experience. Students in the program can earn a Basic Technical Certificate, an Intermediate Technical Certificate and an Associate of Applied Science.