A new program that combines mechanical and electronics engineering technologies, with controls and automation, has been added to the list of courses now being offered at Assiniboine Community College.

ACC is now accepting applications for their September 2025 intake for the Mechatronics Engineering Technology (Controls and Automation) program.

This new program will give graduates the hands-on expertise to pull together knowledge from these disciplines to develop automated machines to service the agricultural, food processing and manufacturing sectors.

“This program is responding to an industry need for professionals skilled in mechatronics,” says Kevin Rogers, Academic Chair of Manufacturing and Agricultural Processing in the Edwards School. “This program will train students interested in careers in automation, robotics, precision agriculture and ag-tech development, and give them the hands-on learning experiences we are so proud to offer.”

Rogers says this program speaks to those who are curious, who identify a problem or a need and seek to find an efficient and effective solution using mechanics and technology.  "This could be anything from automating your soap dispenser, to a robotics arm at a packaging plant or food processing plant."

"If you ask how it works and you think you can creatively make it better this is the type of program for you," he says. "You get to learn a lot about how things work, and you get to learn a lot about how to build things to make things better.  So, this is for problem-solvers and for people who generally like making improvements in people's lives."

The three-year diploma program is an integral new part of ACC's Russ Edwards School of Agriculture & Environment.  Rogers notes this program complements the courses already being offered at ACC, in the Ag industry, the Trades industry, horticulture studies and more.

“We are looking forward to welcoming our first class for this highly anticipated program, ultimately training graduates who can design, implement and maintain mechatronics systems,” said Rogers.

With an increase in the use of technology across all industries, the career options available to graduates are immense. Graduates will be able to seek careers as technicians/technologists in automation, control system repair and design, electronics and mechanical systems repair and design, robotics, manufacturing, product development, and instrumentation. Those interested in more information about these new programs can visit assiniboine.net/mechatronics.

Financial aid and awards are available for this program—visit www.assiniboine.net/awards to find out more.

Please listen to more with Kevin Rogers below!