Program Overview
The Associate of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology at Youngstown State University prepares students for careers in manufacturing, engineering technology, and industrial operations. This hands-on associate degree focuses on the practical application of mechanical systems, manufacturing processes, and engineering technology used in modern industry.
Students learn how mechanical components and systems are designed, tested, manufactured, and maintained. Coursework emphasizes technical problem solving, applied engineering principles, and real-world manufacturing technologies used in today’s industrial environments.
Mechanical engineering technology professionals play a key role in industries such as advanced manufacturing, energy production, automotive technology, and industrial equipment. Graduates are prepared to support engineers and production teams by helping design systems, improve manufacturing processes, test equipment, and maintain mechanical operations.
This associate degree provides a strong technical foundation for immediate employment while also supporting transfer opportunities into bachelor’s programs in engineering technology.
Students in the Mechanical Engineering Technology associate degree develop practical skills that support mechanical design, production systems, and industrial operations.
Key areas of study include:
Mechanical systems and machine components
Manufacturing processes and production systems
Industrial quality control and inspection
Mechanical drafting and technical documentation
Engineering technology fundamentals
Applied mathematics and physics for engineering technology
Graduates gain technical and analytical skills needed to support engineering teams, operate advanced equipment, and improve production efficiency in industrial environments.
Mechanical engineering technology graduates enter a labor market with strong demand across manufacturing, engineering services, and industrial operations.
Labor market data indicates significant workforce demand across several related occupations. Nationally, occupations aligned with mechanical engineering technology represent more than 204,000 jobs with projected growth of about 8.7 percent between 2025 and 2035 and approximately 22,318 annual openings across these roles.
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Median earnings across these occupations average approximately $27.42 per hour or about $57,000 annually, depending on the role and level of experience.
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Employers across manufacturing, engineering, and industrial technology sectors continue to seek workers with technical skills in areas such as quality systems, test equipment, calibration, electronics, and continuous improvement processes.
Graduates of the Mechanical Engineering Technology AAS program can pursue careers in manufacturing, engineering support, and industrial operations.
Common career paths include:
Industrial machinery mechanic
Mechanical engineering technologist or technician
Industrial engineering technologist or technician
Mechanical drafter
Calibration technician
Mechatronics technician
Quality assurance technician
Quality control inspector
Manufacturing technician
Test technician
These roles involve supporting engineering teams, operating technical equipment, maintaining industrial machinery, and improving manufacturing efficiency.
Mechanical engineering technology professionals work across a wide range of technical and industrial sectors. Graduates commonly find employment in:
Advanced manufacturing
Automotive manufacturing
Aerospace and defense manufacturing
Energy and power generation
Industrial equipment manufacturing
Engineering services firms
Industrial inspection and testing services
Quality assurance and testing laboratories
Construction and infrastructure engineering
Logistics and industrial operations
Employers posting positions in these fields include engineering services firms, inspection companies, manufacturing organizations, and global industrial companies.
Employers hiring mechanical engineering technology graduates frequently seek technical and operational skills such as:
Quality management and quality control systems
Continuous improvement processes
Test equipment and calibration
Electronics and mechanical systems troubleshooting
Manufacturing operations and process improvement
Communication and technical documentation
Problem-solving and troubleshooting
Microsoft Excel and engineering software tools
These skills support careers in engineering support, manufacturing technology, and industrial systems management.
The Mechanical Engineering Technology associate degree provides students with practical technical skills that translate directly into careers in manufacturing and engineering technology.
Students gain experience working with modern mechanical systems and industrial technologies while developing problem-solving and analytical skills valued by employers. The program prepares graduates to enter the workforce quickly or continue their education in advanced engineering technology programs.
Youngstown ] Steubenville ]Speak to a Faculty Member
Mike Costarell
Associate Professor, AAS in Mechanical Engineering Technology
The Associate of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology is accredited by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the General Criteria and the Program Criteria for Mechanical Engineering Technology.
The STEM community has a variety of student professional organizations that allow you to grow and foster your learning in an environment with those who share the same interests.
Student professional organizations provide opportunities for you to meet experienced professionals, collaborate with students at other universities, or form relationships with colleagues outside the classroom. They provide social, academic, entrepreneurial, and professional networking opportunities.
Each year, thousands of dollars in scholarships are awarded to students enrolled in the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Scholarships come from a variety of sources, vary in amount, and are available to both incoming and current STEM students. Below, you will find further information regarding the opportunities that may be available to you through the STEM College.
