MECHATRONICS - combines engineering, mechanical components, electrics and computers to create new and improved automation systems.

TechReadySC is an Upstate South Carolina technical college consortium created to cultivate a stronger Upstate through advanced manufacturing training and education.

Supported by a two-year grant from AdvanceSC (Duke-Energy), TechReadySCôís first major charge is to develop a standardized curriculum among the five Upstate partner colleges leading to specialty certificates and an associateís degree in the area of mechatronics technology.

Due to rising global competition, the rapid advancement of technology, and the aging manufacturing workforce, manufcturersí needs have changed dramatically. Manufacturers are facing difficulties in recruiting highly trained workers.

The mechatronics technology program provides state of heart technical training to high school and college students, current business employees and dislocated workers. The center builds and teaches curriculum utilizing simulation software and equipment which is responsive to the needs of regional business and industry.

The goals of the program are to:

ï Adopt and adapt exemplary manufacturing technology curriculum that can be disseminated statewide

ï Keep instructors at community colleges and secondary schools in pace with modern technologies through professional development activities.

ï Advance articulation of industrial technology/automation programs.

ï Build new and existing relationships to ensure that dislocated workers and underrepresented groups and other individuals have access to high quality training

ï Develop a pool of highly trained and skilled workforce to meet manufacturing needs for business and industry.

ï Enhance the image of manufacturing careers

ï Increase the number of skilled technicians