Manufacturing FAQ

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions concerning the Mechanical Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Concentration are listed below.

A mechanical engineering technician with a concentration in manufacturing is a person qualified by education, training, or work experience to develop product and manufacturing processes as well as work in quality control and process improvement, sales, product development, warehousing, and logistics. Engineering technicians work under the supervision of an engineer or senior technician.

Mechanical engineering technicians with a concentration in manufacturing may perform such duties as:

  • Design and test packaging
  • Design and develop product
  • Create engineering CAD drawings
  • Design, install, test, and maintain production equipment
  • Supervise production and shop operations
  • Gather and analyze statistical data
  • Research product, equipment, material, and methods
  • Write technical reports
  • Assist engineers and senior technicians

A mechanical engineering technician with a concentration in manufacturing may work in a:

  • Consulting engineering firm
  • Corporation or company
  • Manufacturing facility
  • Testing facility
  • Governmental or educational agency

Income varies depending on the type of technician position. The median income for the U.S. is $49,290. The median income for the Memphis Metropolitan area is $44,000.

Earn an Associate of Applied Science Degree at Southwest and enter the job market immediately after graduation, or transfer the credits earned in the mechanical engineering technology program to a four-year college and earn a bachelor's degree.

Southwest's employment rate for graduates of the mechanical engineering technology program generally exceeds 95 percent each year.

Southwest provides:

  • Fully accredited programs by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
  • Small classes for more personalized attention
  • Flexible class schedules available at multiple campuses, centers, sites; and distance learning opportunities
  • Affordable tuition
  • Support services, including career counseling, free tutoring and career services, financial aid, job opportunity assistance and on-site child care services

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This program is part of the Technologies Department.