Dallas College partners with Amazon to train students in emerging technology
Students live and study in Mesquite for the duration of the program, which takes on average four semesters.
Dallas College’s Eastfield campus in Mesquite is working with Amazon to train students in the emerging field of mechatronics technology.
As part of the collaboration, students who complete Amazon’s 12-week Mechatronics and Robotics Apprenticeship can earn an associate degree from Dallas College in advanced manufacturing and mechatronics technology.
Completing the required coursework takes on average four semesters.
“We are proud to work with Amazon to improve the talent pipeline in Texas,” Dallas College Chancellor Joe May said in a statement. “By closely collaborating with Amazon through this unique apprenticeship program, we are able to align coursework to meet the specific needs of the industry in this high-growth area. Students also have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials that will jumpstart their careers when they enter or re-enter the workforce.”
Mechatronics — a blend of robotics, mechanical, electrical and computer engineering — is used to develop simpler, smarter systems in automated manufacturing.
Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared to diagnose, service and repair automated fabrication machinery and robotics-driven systems, according to the university.
Dallas College expects to train some 160 students this year. In addition to Texas, students come from Nevada, California, Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey.
The college is working with local hotels and transportation companies to provide services to students while they live and study in Mesquite.
“Mechatronics is a proven way for companies to produce and move goods with the quality and safety modern consumers have come to expect,” Veronique V. Tran, vice provost of the School of Manufacturing and Industrial Technology, said in a statement. “As companies such as Amazon harness the power of automation to provide better, safer and more rewarding jobs for employees, Dallas College is committed to providing training for the multiskilled technicians who keep these companies running.”
