NHTI Offers New Robotics Degree

Starting this fall, NHTI, Concord’s Community College, will begin offering a two-year associate’s degree in robotics and automation engineering technology (RAET).

The school claims that manufacturing is coming back strong ubut requiring that workers are skilled in robotics and automation. As a result, low-skilled workers are being replaced by high-skilled technicians and engineers. To respond to this change, the new RAET program has been carefully constructed, with the assistance of industry partners, to provide students with the skills and knowledge to qualify for these high paying careers.

Joining NHTI’s staff is Program Coordinator and Professor Joe Cunningham who brings experience in both manufacturing and engineering education. He has been involved with the national project, Lead The Way, an engineering program, FIRST and VEX robotics. Cunningham is also a co-founder of NH TechFest.

Students in the RAET program will master engineering fundamentals by taking courses in engineering design, manufacturing processes, computer programming, circuit theory, and digital electronics. Emphasis will also be placed on the study of mathematics and physical science, while English and social science courses broaden and improve the student’s communication skills.

A series of more advanced/specialized courses focuses on the integration of new and existing technologies and their application to product design and fabrication. Topics include robotics, machine vision, process automation, programmable logic controllers, motion control, and the use of computers for design and manufacture.

The program is designed to prepare engineering technologists for employment in advanced manufacturing. Positions such as electro mechanical technician have an average salary of $54,000 per year and the employment outlook for those careers is good. Graduates will also have the foundation necessary to pursue a bachelor’s degree, and to take advantage of opportunities for life-long learning and professional development.

This program is sponsored in part by a $19.97 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment & Training Administration, which was awarded to the NH Community College System in 2011.