College of Engineering – Engineering Technology

Applied Problem Solving for Engineering

There are many ways to become an engineer. Engineering technology is a four-year engineering career path focused more on hands-on, applied problem solving than theory alone. You’ll learn to turn engineering concepts into working products, systems, and solutions by designing, improving, and optimizing the technologies and processes that drive modern industry.

Top 5 Things You Will Learn

  1. Engineering Design & CAD: Turn engineering ideas into designs using engineering graphics, computer-aided design and product development principles.

  2. Manufacturing Processes & Production: Understand how products are made, from metal manufacturing and casting to advanced manufacturing processes and production systems.

  3. Materials & Mechanical Systems: Learn how materials, forces and machine components influence the design, performance and reliability of engineered products.

  4. Electrical, Automation & Digital Technologies: Build a foundation in electricity, electronics and programming, with opportunities to advance into automation, robotics, industrial controls and connected manufacturing systems.

  5. Process Improvement & Engineering Problem-Solving: Analyze how work gets done and apply engineering methods to improve manufacturing processes, productivity, efficiency and reliability.

 

Engineering student wearing safety gear uses a long-handled tool beside an industrial furnace in a manufacturing laboratory.

 

Program of Study

B.S. Engineering Technology

Build technical expertise in the equipment and processes used in manufacturing and advanced manufacturing, computer-aided design and manufacturing, additive manufacturing, fixture and tooling design, robotics and automation, materials science, and metal casting. You’ll work with technologies used throughout modern industry, including Tech’s educational foundry, soon to become one of only three educational smart foundries in the nation. Choose one of three available concentrations:

Engineering Technology Management Concentration

Learn the management, operation, and maintenance of complex technology systems to become a well-qualified technical engineering manager in business, industry, education, and government, contributing to better product reliability and efficiency and improved productivity.

Mechatronics Concentration

Mechatronics combines mechanical, electrical, and computer control systems to create the automated technologies that power modern industry. Learn to design, integrate, and troubleshoot robotics, automated manufacturing equipment, and smart systems while preparing for careers in the development of the next generation of intelligent products and industrial automation.

Smart Manufacturing Concentration

Smart Manufacturing prepares students to lead the digital transformation of manufacturing. Explore Industry 4.0 technologies, including artificial intelligence, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), data analytics, digital twins, autonomous systems, and additive manufacturing, to improve production, efficiency, and decision-making in connected manufacturing environments.

 

Engineering students work at electronics lab stations, wiring and testing circuits while taking notes during a hands-on laboratory class.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of four-year Engineering Technology programs are in high demand, with employment projected to grow 11 percent from 2024 to 2034. Example jobs include:

  • Advanced Manufacturing Robotics Engineer
  • Foundry Engineer
  • Fixture and Tooling Design Engineer
  • Additive Manufacturing Engineer
  • Quality Control Engineer
  • Process Engineer
  • Production Manager
  • Operations Manager
  • Supply Chain Analyst/Manager
  • Automation Engineer
  • Materials Manager
  • Industrial Automation Engineer
  • Project Manager
  • Metallurgical Engineer

 

Employers

Companies that have hired our graduates:

  • Alcoa
  • Apex Systems
  • BMW
  • Denso
  • General Motors
  • Nissan
  • Oak Ridge National Laboratory/Y-12
  • Union Carbide
  • Volkswagen
  • TRW Automotive

Salary Expectations

$104,000-$123,000

Median annual wage for engineering occupations aligned with Engineering Technology careers, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025. Salary varies by occupation, experience, industry and location.

 

Student Experience

Get Involved

Find community in more than 30 student organizations, clubs and competitive teams.

Co-ops and Internships

Gain real-world experience through our co-op and internship programs.

Senior Design Capstone

Your senior year culminates in an industry-sponsored Senior Design Capstone project.


Accreditation

The B.S. in Engineering program, jointly offered by Tennessee Technological University and East Tennessee State University, is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET under its General Criteria.

 

Learn more about the Department of Manufacturing and Industrial Systems Engineering

 

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