Clark’s Mechatronics program emphasizes current concepts and technology through practical, hands-on training with industry-standard equipment
VANCOUVER — Clark College will host a Mechatronics Open House from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 10 at the Columbia Tech Center, 18700 SE Mill Plain Blvd in Vancouver. Visitors can take a hands-on tour of the facility, meet instructors, explore industry equipment, and learn about this fast-growing field. This event is open to the public; high school students and anyone interested in a career in mechatronics are encouraged to attend.
What is Mechatronics?
High-tech and advanced manufacturing rely on cutting-edge technologies and complex systems that integrate robotics, mechanics, and automation. These advancements increase efficiency, streamline production, and power the creation of high-tech products like computer chips, electric vehicles, and clean energy components.
Mechatronics integrates mechanical and electronic components managed by a control system. Mechatronics technicians troubleshoot, maintain, and repair mechanical equipment controlled by electrical, electronic, and computer systems. These systems are increasingly used in a wide range of industries — such as a variety of manufacturing and related technical applications such as high technology.
Why Mechatronics jobs are in demand
High-tech manufacturing jobs such as mechatronics are on the rise in Southwest Washington — manufacturing accounts for more than 11% of our state’s gross product and employs nearly 300,000 people. Clark and other community colleges play a key role in building the pipeline for a well-trained, locally rooted workforce.
In 2021, Washington passed the Building Economic Strength Through Manufacturing (BEST) Act, setting a goal to double the state’s manufacturing base by 2031 with a focus on equity. The BEST Act, along with subsequent legislation, introduced tax incentives and streamlined siting and permitting, supporting the growth of in-state production of clean energy and other advanced manufacturing products across the state.
Nationally, the $280 billion CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 is fueling demand for skilled high-tech manufacturing jobs — including mechatronics — by strengthening U.S. semiconductor production, securing supply chains, and bolstering economic and national security. Washington, a top state for semiconductor manufacturing, particularly in Southwest Washington, sees this investment to drive family-wage jobs and expand career opportunities across the region.
Mechatronics at Clark College
Clark’s Mechatronics program emphasizes current concepts and technology through practical, hands-on training with industry-standard equipment. Students receive real-world, state-approved technical instruction from experienced faculty. Graduates can earn an Associate in Applied Technology (AAT) degree in Mechanical and Instrumentation Automation in two years. Learn more about Mechatronics at Clark College here.
Event details
Location: Clark College Columbia Tech Center, 18700 SE Mill Plain Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98683—view online map and directions here.
All Are Welcome: Clark College is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution.
Accommodations: If you need an accommodation due to a disability in order to fully participate in this event, please contact: Clark College’s Human Resources Office. Phone: 360-992-2105 or email: hr@clark.edu
Clark College expressly prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, citizenship, immigration status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal in its programs and activities. Learn more at www.clark.edu/nds.
About Clark College
Founded in 1933, Clark College is Southwest Washington’s largest public institution of higher education. Clark College provides residents of Southwest Washington with affordable, high-quality academic and technical education. This public community college offers more than 100 degree and certificate programs, including bachelor’s and associate degrees; professional certificates; high school diplomas and GED preparation; and non-credit community and continuing education. Clark serves over 8,500 students including high school students, veterans, displaced workers, multilingual and mature learners, and nearly half are first-generation students.
Information provided by Clark College Communications.
Also read:
- Passage of income tax bill more likely as Gov. Ferguson now says he will sign it
Gov. Bob Ferguson says he will sign a revised income tax proposal targeting earnings above $1 million if the Legislature approves the measure. - Opinion: Many important decisions looming as the 2026 session nears the end
Rep. John Ley outlines budget concerns, energy policy debates and several tax proposals as the 2026 legislative session approaches its final days. - Opinion: 106 striking workers already using unemployment insurance benefits
A Washington Policy Center analyst says the state’s new law allowing striking workers to collect unemployment benefits is already affecting the UI system. - Pro basketball: Vancouver Bears set to debut new name in new league
Vancouver’s professional basketball franchise has rebranded as the Vancouver Bears and will open its season in a new league March 7 at Hudson’s Bay High School. - State basketball quarterfinals: Columbia River Rapids keep dream alive, advance to final four
Columbia River defeated Pullman in the Class 2A state tournament quarterfinals in Yakima to reach the semifinals, while four other Clark County teams fell in their respective state quarterfinal games. - POLL: Who should have the primary say in decisions about a student’s gender identity at school?
Clark County Today is asking readers who should have the primary role in decisions about a student’s gender identity at school. - Opinion: Study shows 2025’s record tax increases reduce Washington’s GDP growth and worker pay
Todd Myers writes that a new economic analysis projects Washington’s 2025 tax increases will slow GDP growth and reduce wages over the next several years.
