SEST welcomes first cohort of new apprenticeship program

Central welcomed on July 9 the inaugural cohort of the new Robotics & Mechatronics Technician Apprenticeship Program. Nine newly hired apprentices from TRUMPF Inc. spent the day on campus for an orientation session and introduction to the program. 

TRUMPF, a leading specialist in sheet metal fabrication machinery and industrial lasers, has a corporate office in Farmington, among many others worldwide. Over the course of the next four semesters, the apprentices will take courses in an undergraduate certificate program in Robotics and Mechatronics designed by Central School of Engineering, Science & Technology faculty. 

The coursework aims to prepare apprentices to work with robotic systems, mechatronic devices, and automation technologies used in manufacturing. Required courses include Robotics and Automation; Programmable Controllers; Manufacturing Processes; and Manufacturing Automation.

In welcoming the new cohort to campus, Central President Zulma R. Toro said, “This partnership with TRUMPF exemplifies our commitment at Central to aligning our educational offerings directly with the evolving needs of industry. We understand the critical demand for highly skilled professionals in advanced manufacturing, and this program is a direct response to that need.”

The apprentices will work full-time during the day and attend classes in the evening at Central. The certificate serves as a stand-alone credential but can be stackable toward other degree programs at Central.