Hi, my name is David Mayo, Mechatronics Instructor here at the 4C Academy. If you’re like most, you’re not familiar with the term mechatronics. In short, just think mechanics and electronics. This overview will help clear things up, but if not I’m here to help. I chose the direction of an educator in this field as I recognized early on this is a promising career path that is terribly undersold. And, even more critical being able to teach it.

I am now in my 35th year as a technician/educator in this field. Of that, I spent fourteen years working as a civilian for the Air Force, eighteen years as a technical college instructor, and three years as a teacher here at the 4C Academy. All of this based on an Associates' Degree in Electronics along with several certifications in the field as well as other instructor certifications. Also, I continue to work part-time taking on various technical projects. I have successfully stayed relevant through years learning more and more which is a challenge to say the least given how quickly technology evolves!

Ultimately the goal of this course is to prepare students for maintenance and installation careers in manufacturing, military systems, agriculture technology, and communications just to name a few. Of course, as the pathway name implies it involves the study of electricity, electronics, and mechanical. Technicians in this field are critical and highly sought after. As such, the pay is well above average.

9th and 10th Grade

PATHWAY OVERVIEW

Having an interest in technology involving electricity, electronics, and mechanics is a strong indication this pathway would be a great choice. As with most technical career fields, good math and communication skills are essential. Job demand is very high for those with these skills, and the 4C Academy has partnered with several employers to provide internships that could lead to a long-term, high-paying career beyond high school. This pathway can also provide a strong foundation for post-secondary education, both technical college and university. Many mechatronics students benefit from improved testing scores on the United States’ Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.

The focus of this program is to establish a practical and functional understanding of the basic operation of systems used in manufacturing, communications, climate control (HVAC), transportation, military, logistics, etc. Logical systematic troubleshooting concepts are layered through- out the course structure from beginning to end.

Course 1: Introduction to Mechatronics
Course 2: Electrical Theory & Electromechanical
Course 3: Systems Control, Implementation, and Trouble- shooting

REAL WORLD OPPORTUNITY

• Entry-level employment in tech-related industry.
• Improved scores on Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
• Improved performance for related post-secondary technical college and university courses.

11th and 12th Grade

INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS

Basic System Technician certification from the Electronics Technician Association (ETA) is available to those who have completed the pathway and the certification preparatory courses. All curriculum/instruction/facilities/testing are officially approved by ETA.

Basic System Technician preparatory courses will cover advanced concepts in systems implementation, control, and troubleshooting.

Internships with industry partners will be the last and most important phase, possibly leading to viable long-term employment.