Skip to main content
Mechanical Engineering Technology
Course Outline Engineering Remodel Gallery

Program Overview

Mechanical Engineering Technology at Fort Hays Tech | Northwest provides a well-balanced curriculum in drafting, design, and advanced manufacturing processes by covering three basic areas of mechanical computer-aided drafting, additive manufacturing (3D printing) and subtractive manufacturing  (multi-axis CNC machining).

Students will develop necessary job skills and related technical information in an on-the-job atmosphere similar to an actual engineering/manufacturing firm. Training will begin on the drafting boards and move to computers using the same software that industry uses, as well as multiple advanced manufacturing machines within the 1800 sq.ft. Advanced Manufacturing Lab. Design and mathematical applications are used throughout many diverse live projects that the program is involved with.

Mechanical Engineering Technology

Build Skills. Work With Real Technology. Launch Your Career.

The Mechanical Engineering Technology program at Fort Hays Tech | Northwest prepares students for hands-on careers in manufacturing, engineering, and advanced technology.

Students design parts, create 3D models, operate CNC machines, build prototypes, and solve real-world problems using industry-level equipment. Training includes CAD (AutoCAD, Inventor, Fusion 360), CNC machining, 3D printing, quality control, materials, and basic robotics and automation.

Through lab-based instruction and a final capstone project, students graduate with practical experience and a portfolio that demonstrates their skills to employers. SME ToolingU modules aligned with national manufacturing standards further strengthen career readiness.

Graduates are prepared for careers such as CAD Technician, Engineering Technician, Manufacturing Technician, CNC Programmer (entry-level), and Quality Technician.

With modern equipment, small class sizes, and strong industry connections, this program focuses on what matters most—preparing you for work from day one.

Degree and Certificate Options

Associate of Applied Science (or Technical Certificate)

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, the student will be able to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to visualize objects and layouts and demonstrate good communication and integrated math skills.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in completing technical designs and drawings with accuracy, legibility, neatness, and speed.

  • Define terms and elements related to the different engineering industries introduced throughout the program.

  • As a team member, contribute to the project by completing and organizing assigned tasks in a timely manner.

  • As a team leader, manage people and resources to complete assigned projects.

  • Demonstrate mechanical CAD procedures proficiently and accurately.

  • Design for and safely operate additive and subtractive manufacturing equipment.

  • Perform calculations for proper operation of subtractive manufacturing equipment.

  •  Prepare shop-level detail drawings in accordance with industry standards.

Career Outcomes in
Mechanical Engineering Technology

Projected Salary
$40,000– $60,000 per year

Job Placement

In 2024, Mechanical Engineering Technology placed 100% of its graduates.
 
Within the last couple of years, students have been placed at the following companies:
 
Lockheed Martin Space, Denver CO
Natoma Manufacturing, Norton KS
Brown & Caldwell - multiple locations
Finn Kool - Beloit KS
Kanamak Hydraulics, Garden City KS
F&S Engraving, Chicago IL
Miltech Machine, Norton KS
 
The most recent average starting salary for graduates was $50,000 per year. The advisory committee for the program has set the expected salary range for graduates of this program to $40,000 to $60,000 per year.
 
The graduates of the program are highly sought after in the industry and are being hired as CAD Technicians, Mechanical Designers, CNC Programmers, etc.
Here is what one company has to say about the program and the graduates:
 
“Here at HNTB we have been hiring engineering technology students from Fort Hays Tech | Northwest from the very first class in 1966. We have hired countless graduates from this school. The students from this school have the necessary skills to become productive right away. They learn good work ethics, and are ready to enter the workforce. We have been very pleased with the quality of this school and look forward to hiring these graduates in the future.”
– Wayne Gregory, HNTB
three people at talking at table with documents and laptop

Estimated Costs

Download the Estimated Program Costs Worksheet

View Costs
student with backpack speaking with tour guides on campus

Schedule Tour

Find out more information about touring Fort Hays Tech | Northwest

Schedule Tour
dark-haired instructor with red overlay sweater teaching course at front of room

Faculty

View the program faculty

Faculty & Advisors

Michael Zimmerman

Michael Zimmerman
Mechanical Engineering Technology Instructor

785-890-1578
michael.zimmerman@fhnw.edu

Request Information
Apply Now
hand using pen to check off items on a checklist

Admissions Checklist

Below is a list of items Fort Hays Tech | Northwest’s Admissions Team will need prior to your acceptance into the Engineering & Drafting Technology program.

  • A Fort Hays Tech | Northwest Application Completed and Submitted

  • High School or GED Transcript Submitted

  • (If Applicable) College Transcript Submitted

  • ACT or AccuPlacer Scores Submitted (AccuPlacer Testing can be scheduled on-site at the Fort Hays Tech | Northwest campus)

Required items can be submitted in person at the Fort Hays Tech | Northwest campus, via postal mail addressed to: Fort Hays Tech | Northwest Admissions, 1209 Harrison, Goodland, KS, or through email communications with admissions@fhnw.edu.

hand using pen to check off items on a checklist

Advisory Committee

Andy Pelster
Tod Bunker
Rene Hernandez
Roy Marken
Mike Grant
Dustin Delgado
Frank Mercurio
Dave Harms
Douglas Roeder
Tony Peall
Adam Schart
Jenny Ryan

Testimonials

Andrew Strange
Andrew Strange

Civil/Mechanical Engineering Technology

Returning to school at 34 was a big decision, but one of the best I’ve ever made. I already held a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Security, but I was ready for a career change. I chose the Engineering program because of its strong reputation for graduate placement and my genuine interest in the field—I had always wanted to learn to be a machinist...

Sydney Schears
Sydney Schears

Mechanical Engineering Technology

"My time at Northwest Tech has been great, I've learned a lot from teachers and peers at the college. It's been a journey, I've learned that it's better to keep going even if you think you are on your last straw. Sometimes life or classes will get a bit challenging, but you just have to keep pushing through and giving it all you've got."

READ MORE

Abigail Scott
Abigail Scott

Engineering Technology

"My Name is Abigail Scott and I am a student in the Engineering Technology Program. My instructors are some of the best. They help you out and also make sure you have the best option to graduate with a job in your field of study! I would recommend anyone to the Northwest Tech Engineering Program. You can make it through any problem with math or any program if you just put your mind and time to it."

READ MORE