Engineering Design Technology, AAS

Technological advancements have revolutionized the design process in American industry. Engineering design technicians use CAD (computer-aided drafting) to create detail drawings and working plans for the process piping design, mechanical/manufacturing design and architectural design industries. It is from these CAD drawings that the conceptualization of an idea or design is transformed into a produced product. Students entering into the program can choose one of three industry paths as their focus of study; Process Piping Design, Mechanical Design or Architecture Design. The Engineering Design Technology program provides students the opportunity to study and learn 2D and 3D design, solid modeling methods and standards used in the production of drawings for these industries. After successful completion of the two-year program, the student receives the Associate of Applied Science Degree, Engineering Design Technology. Graduates are encouraged to apply for the award of Computer Aided Drafting Certificate of Proficiency as well. This program prepares Engineering Design Technology graduates to enter the workforce as work ready, entry level engineering design technicians. Students choosing a focus of Process Piping Design will study and learn the design processes, industry standards and procedures used in the production of 2D and 3D piping drawings. They will also be exposed to the drawings, models, specifications and construction documentation used in the design, layout and construction of process piping facilities. Possible industry applications include petroleum, chemical, water and food processing plants. Students choosing a Mechanical Design focus will study and learn the drafting and design processes, with a disciplined approach to applying industry standards and procedures used in the mechanical and manufacturing industry. They will study the chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of various materials, manufacturing processes, including; 3D printing, casting, forming and machining, press fit, bolted and welded joints, and transmission components. Possible industry applications include aerospace, biomedical, consumer products, construction, defense, structural design. machine shops and manufacturing facilities. Students choosing an Architecture Design focus will study and learn the design processes, industry standards and procedures used in residential and commercial architecture design. They will learn to prepare detailed working drawings for residential and commercial structures. They will study the site and environmental considerations in planning residential and commercial developments, material usage, applying codes and standards in the creation of construction drawings, and writing specifications. Possible industry applications include residential and commercial architect firms, planners, developers, and general contractors. The EDT program also provides courses in civil design and geographic information systems and lays a solid foundation for students continued studies at the Baccalaureate level in engineering technology, industrial management or other related degrees. Students who are considering transfer to a university with a compatible Baccalaureate degree program should work with their faculty advisors to select additional General Education courses that result in the student being Core Complete. Graduating with an AAS degree alone does not make a student core complete. Marketable skills for this award include: interpersonal skills, computer skills + typing, multi-tasking, problem solving, technical skills, and detail oriented.