The main goals of this project are: program development and improvement, and curriculum and educational materials development. . In support of these goals, the main objectives are:
• Develop life-long career and educational pathways for mechatronics technicians to support critical industry needs in the maritime industry, by adapting educational materials or courses developed elsewhere or developing new modules that add rigorous STEM content to maritime mechatronics technician program;
• Develop an educational course prerequisites flow diagram for different levels of maritime mechatronics education (Associate of Science (A.S.) and A.A.S. degree as well as B.S. degree);
• Develop core mechatronics curricula for associate degree granting institutions with an emphasis on maritime applications;
• Develop core curricula for baccalaureate degree granting institutions, also emphasizing maritime mechatronics;
• Disseminate the results through partnerships with community colleges serving other geographical areas where naval presence is significant;
• Work with Tidewater Community College’s Center for Military and Veteran Education to offer mechatronics pathways as opportunities for veterans to capitalize on their skills and experience during their transition from military service to civilian employment; and
• Collaborate with local and national ship repair and shipbuilding partners, naval laboratories, and strategic community colleges located in the areas with significant naval presence to ensure the coursework is and remains relevant, and will meet our nation’s present and future needs for maritime mechatronics technicians.
Description
