Georgian College Leads the Way in Canada’s Industrial Revolution

When Rebecca Sabourin graduated as a mechanical engineer over two decades ago, she quickly realized that her education was lacking in certain key areas necessary for her career advancement in the aerospace engineering field. To keep up with the demands of her industry, Sabourin had to learn about electrical systems and computer programming on the job. Drawing from her own experiences, Sabourin, now the dean of engineering and environmental technologies and skilled trades at Georgian College in Canada, underscores the importance of interdisciplinary learning to equip students with the skills needed for success in today’s industries.

The electromechanical engineering technology – mechatronics program at Georgian College offers students a comprehensive curriculum that combines electrical, mechanical, and computing systems. This three-year program covers a wide range of topics including electronics, digital circuits, motor control, robotics, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), pneumatics, hydraulic systems, machining, dynamics, stress analysis, the internet of things, web and database systems, and interface programming. The program is designed to prepare students for the interconnected systems and human-in-the-loop (HITL) nature of the fourth industrial revolution.

What sets this program apart is its systems-based approach. Rather than focusing solely on theoretical knowledge, students are taught to understand and troubleshoot common systems. By gradually breaking down complex systems into their elemental components, such as resistors and capacitors, students gain a practical understanding of the inner workings of various technologies.

Supported by Magna International, a leading auto parts manufacturer, the Magna Mechatronics lab is a cutting-edge facility that enhances the experiential learning aspect of the mechatronics program. Officially opened on June 23, the lab is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment dedicated to emerging technologies such as interconnectivity, automation, machine learning, and real-time data analysis. Sabourin describes the lab as a “magnificent” and “fully functioning lab” that offers students the opportunity to model various tasks typically encountered in factory environments.

The lab consists of different workstations, including assembly, distribution, and warehousing, where students can study and understand the specific components and processes involved in these areas. Collaborative robots and industrial robots, similar to those used in assembly lines, are available for students to learn about automation and human-robot collaboration. The lab also features processors, controllers, and sensors for data collection and analysis, as well as simulation tools to allow students to practice and refine their skills.

The mechatronics program at Georgian College emphasizes work-integrated learning by offering a four- or eight-month co-op component. This approach enables students to gain real-world experience and bring their industry knowledge back to the classroom. Brett Wismer, the employer relations consultant at Georgian College, highlights the program’s success in forging connections with third-party employers who actively seek to hire students from the mechatronics program. Various sectors, including automotive, aerospace, pharmaceutical, and energy, consistently show interest in hiring graduates.

Wismer recognizes the growing importance of robotics and automation in today’s industries and notes that many students choose to pursue careers in these fields upon graduation. Employers value the analytical skills of these students, who can dismantle, analyze, and reassemble robots effectively. The mechatronics program, therefore, not only prepares students for factory roles but also opens doors to research, innovation, and business-related career opportunities.

Rebecca Sabourin believes that the mechatronics program equips students with critical knowledge needed to tackle the evolving global industry. She emphasizes the importance of this multidisciplinary approach in addressing challenges such as climate disruption and the pursuit of sustainable development goals. By providing students with a comprehensive toolkit and a deep understanding of interconnected systems, the program prepares them to confront and overcome the pressing issues of our time.

The mechatronics program at Georgian College is at the forefront of equipping students with the skills required for success in the rapidly evolving industries of today. Through its interdisciplinary approach, state-of-the-art facilities like the Magna Mechatronics lab, and emphasis on work-integrated learning, the program prepares graduates to thrive in various sectors, from automation and robotics to research, innovation, and business. As the world enters the fourth industrial revolution, the demand for professionals with a comprehensive understanding of interconnected systems will continue to grow, making the mechatronics program an excellent choice for those seeking to make a significant impact in the global industry.