Manufacturing In An Introductory Materials Course

The mechanical engineering technology curriculum includes formal courses in manufacturing processes, but manufacturing considerations should also be incorporated into courses intended to teach fundamental theoretical principles. Adding materials processing exposure in parallel with theory has a number of benefits for students. These benefits include: helping students to understand how fundamental principles relate to processes and controls, giving them an appreciation for the scale and pace of manufacturing environments, increasing their awareness of the number and type of goods produced in their geographic area, and maintaining their interest in a technical education and career. This paper presents examples of topics, demonstrations, and field trips used in an introductory materials course for freshman and sophomores. Materials processing information does not detract from the focus of the course, but rather enhances the ability of students to see connections between theory and implementation.