Robotics & Advanced Systems

The Robotics & Advanced Systems Pathway gives students hands-on experience with the technologies that keep Kentucky’s industries running—combining robotics, engineering, and manufacturing to prepare the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators. Students gain skills in precision design, automation, and advanced production systems that are essential to Kentucky’s thriving manufacturing and engineering workforce.

Computerized Manufacturing & Machining:  "CNC operators monitor and operate CNC (computer numerically controlled) machines to cut metal and plastic parts for the manufacturing industry. They select and download CNC programs and perform test operations to ensure the product is made to specifications. The CNC operator may select and set all tools required to produce the final precision part to customer specifications."

Automation Engineering:  "This pathway prepares individuals to apply scientific and mathematical principles to the design, development, and implementation of automated and robotic systems. The pathway includes instruction in materials science and engineering, manufacturing processes, process engineering, assembly and product engineering, robotic systems design, and manufacturing competitiveness. Automation Engineers plan manufacturing practices by researching and developing tools, processes, machines, and equipment to integrate the facilities and systems for producing quality products with the optimal capital expenditure."

Electrical Engineering / Industrial Maintenance Engineering: "This pathway provides the opportunity to blend Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses with Engineering courses to help students apply technical skills along with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) skills to solve real-world problems. Electrical Engineers apply electrical theory and related knowledge to diagnose and modify developmental or operational electrical machinery, electrical control equipment, and circuitry in industrial or commercial plants and laboratories. Electrical Engineers experiment with motor-control devices, switch panels, transformers, generator windings, solenoids, and other electrical equipment and components according to engineering data and knowledge of electrical principles."

Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing): "A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills in using three=dimensional (3D) computer technology to create technical illustrations and models used in manufacturing, design, production, and construction. Includes instruction in 3D computer-aided design (CAD), 3D printing, 3D model design and construction, and 3D scanning."

• BS in Civil Engineering 

• BS in Electrical Engineering

• BS in Mechanical Engineering 

• Associates in Science Pre-Engineering SKYCTC

Students will take Dual Credit courses through the SKYCTC pre-engineering track. Skills learned can be relayed directly into industry or can be continued to pursue a four-year degree in Engineering through WKU. Stay tuned for updates on Dual Credit course alignment! Some courses that can be taken Dual Credit include (but are not limited to) 

• SKYCTC CMM 110 Fundamentals of Machine Tools- A

• SKYCTC CMM 112 Fundamentals of Machine Tools- B

• SKYCTC CAD 100 Introduction to Computer Aided Design

CNC Operator

What you'll do: CNC machinists and technicians operate high-tech machines to produce precision parts used in aerospace, automotive, and medical industries. Kentucky companies need skilled machinists to keep production moving at the highest quality. 

• CNC Programmer – $56,140

• CNC Tool Operator – $57,830

• Machine Operator – $47,890

• Engine and Other Machine Assembler – $46,830

• Manufacturing Engineer – $70,000

Automation Engineering

What you'll do: Automation engineers design and maintain robotic systems that improve efficiency and safety in factories and warehouses. With Kentucky’s strong automotive and logistics sectors, demand for automation talent continues to grow. 

• Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technician – $60,000

• Robotics Technician – $64,982

• Robotics Engineer – $89,650

• Automation Engineer / Controls Engineer – $75,000

• Mechatronics Engineer – $80,000

Electrical/Industrial Maintenance Engineering

What you'll do: From wiring systems to troubleshooting industrial equipment, these engineers and technicians keep Kentucky’s power, production, and technology systems running smoothly. They are essential across manufacturing, healthcare, and energy industries.

• Electrical Engineer – $97,247

• Electronics Engineer – $77,552

• Manufacturing Engineer – $99,270

• Control Systems Engineer – $75,000

• Renewable Energy Engineer – $75,000

Additive Manufacturing

What you'll do: Additive manufacturing specialists use advanced 3D printing technologies to create prototypes and parts for everything from cars to medical devices. Kentucky is expanding opportunities in this cutting-edge field of design and production.

• Industrial Engineering Technician – $61,270 

• Mechanical Drafter – $60,000

• Commercial and Industrial Designer – $70,470

• Additive Manufacturing Engineer / 3D Printing Engineer – $70,000

• Design Engineer / CAD Designer – $65,000

• Tooling-U Modules

• MasterCam textbooks

Curriculum supports (textbooks, modules, simulations, etc.) are still being added to all academies. Stay tuned for updates!