Automation Robotics Engineering Technology

Program Description

Are you ready to start a career in automated systems for the manufacturing industry? Join us to become a mechatronics maintenance technician!

Automation technicians design, build, install, and troubleshoot systems used in packaging, supply chains, and other manufacturing processes. They utilize industrial robots to automate tasks across mechanical, electrical, motor controls, and pneumatic systems.

In our program, students gain hands-on experience with essential devices like PLCs and robots. This practical training prepares them for roles in the rapidly growing automation technology field, where they learn to diagnose and resolve issues to ensure smooth production. Graduates and apprentices assist engineers in refining both new and existing designs.

With automation robotics technology expanding rapidly, there's a strong demand for skilled mechatronics technicians. We collaborate with industry leaders to offer apprenticeships that prepare our students' for high-wage, in demand careers. Apprenticeship opportunities allow students to gain valuable real-world work experience while completing their studies.

At Hennepin Tech, our modern facilities, dedicated faculty, and industry partnerships ensure that graduates excel in this dynamic field. Students who earn an Associate of Applied Science degree can seamlessly transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree in manufacturing and engineering technology, opening doors to advanced career opportunities.

Program Information

• Overview
• Accreditation & Affiliations
• Awards & Certifications
• Faculty

Overview

Workforce services for eligible adults are available through this program authorized by Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Click for more info!

Multi-term Registration Available!

Class Time: Day and Evening
Semester: Fall or Spring
Campus: Brooklyn Park or Eden Prairie

Course Search

Skills Required

The ARET Program does not have any prerequisites other than the regular Admissions process.

Wages/Outlook/Advancement

Wage and Job Outlook information for this program are available at Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED).

Accreditation and Affiliations

Hennepin Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. In 2003, Hennepin Tech became a member of the HLC Academic Quality Improvement Program.

• IOPP MN
• IOPP MN Student Chapter
• IOPP MN Student Chapter on Facebook
• PMMI
• PMMI University

Every year, PMMI’s Education and Training Foundation supports packaging industry education in a number of ways. In addition to connecting partner schools with machinery donors, providing events that support industry education at the PACK EXPO trade shows and providing a hiring forum for graduating student at the Career Center at packexpo.com. PMMI supplies scholarship funds to packaging schools and PMMI members who continue their education.  “These students are the future of the packaging industry,” said Charles D. Yuska, President and CEO, PMMI. “I can't think of any better investment for our association than an investment in tomorrow’s packaging leaders.”

Articulations

For a complete list of current of all agreements, please visit the Minnesota Transfer website.

Industry Partners

The ARET program has an active advisory committee. The purpose of advisory committees is to promote partnerships between career and technical education, business, labor, and the communities they serve. Advisory committee members provide input on program structure, curriculum, technology, and student preparation.

Award Name	Award Type	Location	Planning Guide	WIOA
Automated Machinery Repair Technician	AAS	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie	PDF	Yes
Automated Machinery Systems	Diploma	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie	PDF	Yes
Automation Robotics Engineering Technology	AAS	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie	PDF	Yes
Automation Technologies	Certificate	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie		Yes
Controls Engineering Technician	Diploma	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie	PDF	Yes
Mechatronics	AAS	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie	PDF	Yes
Mechatronics Electrical Specialist	Certificate	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie	PDF	Yes
Mechatronics Mechanical Specialist	Certificate	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie	PDF	Yes
Mechatronics Technician	Certificate	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie		Yes
Production Technologies	Certificate	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie		Yes
Supply Chain Technician	Diploma	Brooklyn Park Eden Prairie	PDF	Yes

Some of the General Education requirements have changed and are not reflected in the current catalog. Please schedule an appointment with your program advisor to see how this might affect you.

Jeffrey Thorstad
Phone: 952-995-1623
Email: Jeff.Thorstad@HennepinTech.edu

Brad Thorpe
Phone: 952-995-1564
Email: Brad.Thorpe@HennepinTech.edu

David Thorpe
Phone: 952-995-1559
Email: David.Thorpe@HennepinTech.edu

Mark Johnson
Phone: 952-995-1345
Email: Mark.Johnson.2@HennepinTech.edu