Engineering technicians and technologists are vital team members who focus on applying engineering and technology to solutions, whereas engineers focus on theoretical thinking. They work with engineers, designers, planners and architects.
What is the difference between an engineer and engineering technologist?
Engineering graduates innovate new methods of analysis and solutions for open-ended, complex and unique design problems. The field usually calls for at least a master's degree and coursework includes plenty of higher math.
Engineering tech graduates apply current knowledge and practices to the solution of specific technical problems and standard design problems. New graduates most likely enter industry in construction, product design, development, testing, technical operations, technical services or sales.
The level of math and science required is not as theoretical as that required in engineering.
Program highlights
- MCC delivers the most cost-effective technical career preparation in Kansas City, MO. We are a publicly funded college with quality programs and full accreditation.
- You'll work with the latest equipment and software in our design and engineering technology labs.
- Graduates will have a strong background in mathematics, design principles, computer aided design and other technologies relating to the engineering fields.
- Industry professionals teach day and evening classes.
- Our classes combine instructor-led and on-line learning with hands-on lab work.
- You can test out of certain courses from the skills you've developed on the job
Degree and certificate options
-
Architectural engineering technicians apply engineering principles and technical skills to develop efficient buildings and related systems, such as lighting and communications systems.
Civil engineering technicians help plan, design and oversee construction and maintenance of efficient structures and facilities including skyscrapers, bridges, roads and infrastructure. They work with steel, wood, concrete, earth as well as advanced construction materials.
Courses: CADD, structural design, physics, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), commercial and residential architecture, surveying
-
19 - 21 credit hour certificate.
Courses: Revit, structural steel design, CADD, heating, ventilation and air conditioning,
-
Computer and Electronics technicians help design, build and produce computerized electronic equipment and create the next generation of electronic devices. They lay out, build, test and increase the efficiency of electronic components of devices and systems.
You'll learn to troubleshoot, repair and modify developmental and production electronics and their systems and develop a strong knowledge of hardware and software and how the two interact.
Courses: programming, CADD, electronics, hardware, AC and digital analysis, digital electronics, data structures and algorithm analysis, programmable logic controllers.
-
Drafting and design professionals use CADD programs to prepare production drawings and illustrations for architectural and engineering firms. They help design building structures, civil projects and mechanical and manufacturing processes.
In our program, you'll learn to render a wide variety of technical systems, machines and products, visually interpret concepts and work with engineers to give form to ideas.
You will learn to draft and design numerous projects, including building design, building information modeling and surveying in addition to learning engineering graphics and multiple computer-aided drafting and design software packages.
Our degree program covers three CADD programs and parametric modeling plus courses in architecture, machine design, civil design, blueprint reading and general education courses to earn a degree and transfer for a four-year degree.
Our 17-19 credit-hour certificate program covers the three CADD programs and parametric modeling.
Scholarship opportunity
The Black & Veatch Scholarship is available to students majoring in Computer Aided Drafting and Design. Recipients will be considered part of the Black & Veatch Scholars Program.
Throughout the school year, scholarship recipients will receive invitations to professional development and networking events as well as mentorship opportunities with Black & Veatch professionals. Connect with your advisor to learn more about eligibility requirements.
-
Mechanical engineering techs deal with all technology of the past, present and future. They help modify, develop and test machinery and equipment and are involved with research, test, development or production.
You'll learn to apply theory and principles to solve problems of industrial layout and manufacturing production; study and record time, motion, method and speed to improve the performance of production; establish standard production rates and improve efficiency.
Courses: CADD, structural design, physics, parametric modeling, machining, Computer numerical control (CNC), Mastercam.
-
Mechatronics engineering technicians operate, test and maintain unmanned, automated, servomechanical, or electromechanical equipment. They may also assist engineers in testing and designing robotics equipment.
Courses: Inventor, industrial electrical, electrical print reading, health and safety for construction, statics, machine design, motor controls
Careers
As an engineering technician, drafter or designer you’ll find work at such companies as Black & Veatch, BlueScope Construction, Burns & McDonnell, Olsson, BSE Structural Engineers and more.
Visit Occupational Information Network (O*NET) to view salary information, employment outlook and personal characteristics needed
for this career.
Complex problem solving, reading comprehension, critical thinking, math and complex problem solving are essential skills of those in this field
Transfer made simple
Whatever your transfer destination, we'll work to make sure your credits move easily.
That's why we're experts at it. We've worked out specific transfer agreements with many four-year colleges and universities.
Check with one of our advisors for transfer information and agreements with Missouri Western State University, the University of Central Missouri and DeVry University for transfer to their B.S. degree programs in Engineering Technology.