Albany Tech renames ‘Automation and Robotics Technology’ program

ALBANY — College faculty, staff, officials, and community stakeholders gathered Monday to unveil the strategic renaming of Albany Technical College’s Mechatronics program to Automation & Robotics Technology. The update reflects evolving industry language and training expectations across Georgia’s advanced manufacturing sector and provides clearer pathways for students and employers.

Across the Technical College System of Georgia, peer colleges have aligned credentials under the Automation & Robotics banner, reinforcing a statewide move toward clarity around skills in automation, robotics, PLCs, industrial controls, and smart manufacturing. Examples include Savannah Technical College, Lanier Technical College, West Georgia Technical College and Southern Crescent Technical College.

“Renaming the program to Automation & Robotics Technology is about clarity and currency,” Albany Technical College President Emmett Griswold said. “Our partners run highly automated operations that change quickly, and we intend to meet them there. This update keeps our curriculum aligned with the latest technology so students graduate trained on current equipment, software, and safety standards and can step directly into high-demand roles.”

Recent program enhancements emphasize hands-on learning and employer relevance. Lab upgrades now include an industrial robotic arm used in today’s automated plants, giving students direct experience with the same platforms they will see on the job.

“Our labs integrate programmable logic controllers, robotics, industrial wiring, and fluid power, and this name makes that focus unmistakable,” Program Chair/Instructor for Automation/Robotics Technology and Electrical Systems Ebony Johnson said. “Students learn how each subsystem connects — controls, sensors, drives, and mechanical assemblies — so they can diagnose and repair entire automated lines, not just one component.”

Graduates pursue roles such as automation technician, robotics technician, industrial maintenance technician, controls technician, and mechatronics technician in manufacturing, logistics and related industries. Regional career pathways are strengthened through on-site recruiting and interview days, employer round tables, and paid internship partnerships — including efforts with MCLB Albany and Georgia-Pacific — supported by ATC Career Services.

Locally and nationally, work force demand remains favorable. The federal category covering many robotics/automation technicians reported a $70,760 median annual wage in May 2024, with related maintenance occupations projected to grow 13% from 2024–2034, driven by automation and retirements.

Many ATC alumni have launched careers with companies such as Georgia-Pacific, Procter & Gamble, Molson Coors, Mars Wrigley, Tara Foods and Outdoor Network, reflecting strong employer connections across southwest Georgia and beyond.

The program admits students on a rolling basis under Albany Tech’s Success Terms, offering multiple entry points each term.