Technology affects many aspects of our daily lives, and the majority of us take it for granted. However, the goods, services and products we use and the quality of living we enjoy is a direct result of efficient and highly developed technical concepts. The maintenance, expansion and generation of new technology creates an ever-increasing demand for individuals who are skilled in the disciplines of this high-growth field.
Interested?
The Engineering Technology program focuses on the application of engineering and scientific concepts to manufacturing related industries. A broad technical core stresses applied laboratory experiences coupled with theory and examples provided by staff with industrial experience in their specialized fields. The strong professional studies area provides the foundations for those seeking a future management career track.
The Engineering Technology program began in the late 1950s. Through the years, the program has kept current with the needs of industry by way of strong external advisory groups, and graduate and employer surveys. In 2001 the program name was changed from Industrial Technology to Engineering Technology to better identify the skills held by graduates.
Preparing For UW-Stout
Because the Engineering Technology program requires college calculus, we encourage you to take as many math courses in high school as possible. Students with lesser math background may have to take preparatory classes to reach the calculus competency level. Additional courses in English, science and communications are also highly recommended. If you have a particular concentration in mind, then technical courses in that area would be valuable before attending UW-Stout.
Starting Out
Course work for the major is a balance of general education (common to all degree programs), major studies (similar to other technical programs) and concentrations (unique to the area of focus within the program). Each portion of the program provides you with sufficient general educational breadth and technical depth to become a successful professional in this field.
The first four semesters involve course work in the general and major studies areas. During your first semester, the Introduction to Engineering Technology course provides an overview of the concentrations, program activities and typical employment expectations. At the end of this course, you will be asked to select a concentration and will then be assigned a faculty adviser familiar with your concentration.
As You Progress
The trend in industry is an increasing demand for graduates who are not only technically competent, but who can also function well in corporate and team environments. Interpersonal relations, communication skills, diversity issues and supervisory concepts are stressed and, when possible, integrated with the technical content. During the last four semesters, the emphasis will shift to more professional studies and concentration courses.
A co-op or field experience is strongly recommended, but not required. Usually students will fit this in during the summer or a summer/fall experience (preferred). A number of student organizations provide additional professional and technical experience and the opportunity to develop leadership skills and industrial contacts.
UW-Stout's reputation with industry has been built on the outstanding performance of previous graduates, who not only creatively solve problems analytically, but who are also skilled in the materials, processes, systems and technologies of design, development and production. This program will continue to provide industry with highly qualified technical professionals.
Entry Positions
Program graduates are in demand by industry, and have received some of the highest starting salaries of all UW-Stout graduates.
Program concentrations tend to provide a focus or primary area for future employment. However, industry is so diverse, yet technically interrelated, that it is not uncommon for graduates to use their area of specialty in a wide range of job titles, products and services. Entry-level positions involve technical activities, usually in a team environment, and perhaps with limited supervisory functions. The general and professional studies, along with work experience and continuing education, will provide the basis for future growth in the areas of technical responsibility and/or management options.
The 2006-07 employment summary reports that 100 percent of program graduates were employed. Starting salaries ranged from $33,000 to $65,000, and the average was $46,000.