Mechatronics – Repair and Maint of Industrial Equip

The Mechatronics – Repair and Maintenance of Industrial Equipment pathway project is preparing students and adult learners for careers in maintaining and repairing advanced industrial systems—skills that are essential to the manufacturing and logistics industries in New Jersey. Through a coordinated and strategic collaboration among education and industry partners, the pathway has expanded training access, launched a registered apprenticeship, and delivered high-impact experiential learning to a broad audience including high school students, incumbent workers, and adult learners.

Education partners—Raritan Valley Community College, Salem Community College, and multiple high schools—have worked closely with employers such as L’Oréal and Ivoclar to ensure curriculum and training align with current workforce needs. The program has integrated Festo’s industry-leading mechatronics frameworks, enhanced equipment and instructional materials, and developed instructor capacity through train-the-trainer professional development.

Key achievements include:

• Apprenticeship Launch: A registered Mechatronics Apprenticeship Program was officially launched, building on the success of the Year One pilot. Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) is used to evaluate the Related Technical Instruction (RTI), accelerating progress toward degree completion.
• Industry Engagement: Employer panels and advisory boards have ensured real-time feedback and alignment with evolving industry needs, contributing to the relevance and quality of the training delivered.
• Education Pathways: Seamless articulation agreements, including a formal pathway to New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), promote continued academic advancement and stackable credential attainment.
• Experiential Learning: Students have engaged directly with industry through hands-on training on employer equipment, real-world projects, and internships.

High School Impact: Rising high school seniors in multiple districts were introduced to mechatronics and industrial maintenance careers, earning credits and gaining exposure to in-demand fields through dual enrollment and non-credit programming.

The Mechatronics pathway project has not only delivered on the promise of career preparation—it has also built an ecosystem of support that includes community-based organizations, workforce boards, and adult literacy providers, expanding access and opportunity for learners across the state.