Engineering Tech Open House Planned for Niswonger Campus
February 11, 2025
Niswonger Campus to Host Engineering Tech Open House Feb. 18
The Walters State Engineering Technology Program will hold an open house from
6:30-7:30 p.m. on Feb. 18 at the Walters State Niswonger Campus. Instructors will
demonstrate equipment and discuss the in-demand skills students learn. Everyone is
invited and refreshments will be served.
Four engineering technology degrees are now offered at the campus: the A.A.S.
in engineering systems technology with concentrations in architectural design, mechanical
design and computer-aided design; and the A.A.S. in electrical engineering technology
with a concentration in electromechanical. The program is accredited by the Association
of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering.
“Engineering technology leads to a “hands-on” career focused on applications,
implementations and design,” Dr. Bob Dixon, professor and head of the engineering
technology program, said. “Engineering technology graduates leave with a broad range
of knowledge.
Engineering Technology is a relatively new addition to the Niswonger Campus,
although Walters State has offered programs at campuses in Morristown and Sevierville
for years. The program has a 100% placement rate.
“These programs are usually completed in four semesters,” Dixon said. “Graduates
are able to find a good job with a good future. You can provide for a family with
these skills.”
Many manufacturing industries are always looking for employees with skills in
the areas of programmable logic control (PLC), electric systems control, robotics
and computer aided design, Dixon said. Manufacturing, though, isn’t the only place
these skills are needed. They are used at amusement parks, in logistics and in transportation.
“These degrees are good options for adult learners who want to make a career
change,” Dixon said.
Financial aid programs are available that may make the programs tuition-free
for students. Need-based programs like Pell grants are one option. Current high school
students may be eligible for Tennessee Promise and Tennessee Hope Lottery grants that
pay tuition. Adult learners may be eligible for Tennessee Reconnect. Some classes
are available for dual enrollment students currently in high school and those may
be paid for through the dual enrollment grant.
The program also participates in a state-wide apprenticeship program that can
begin in high school and continue with employment.
The development of the program at the Niswonger Campus has been guided by members
of an advisory board. These include educators and employers.
“Their assistance to the program has been invaluable,” Dixon said.