Ohio University launches two new certificate programs in automation and mechatronics at Chillicothe campus

As high-tech manufacturers continue to move into central and southeast Ohio, Ohio University has adapted to the growing demand for skilled manufacturing technicians by expanding two five-course certificates in automation and mechatronics to the Chillicothe campus.

“This is an amazing opportunity for individuals in Chillicothe area who are interested in short term credentialing with hands on learning in the areas of robotics, automation and mechatronics,” said Zaki Kuruppalil, professor and chair of the Engineering Technology and Management Department in the Russ College of Engineering and Technology.

“The skills gained are in alignment with the huge demand in those fields both locally and nationally,” Kuruppalil said. “The industry standard equipment such as FANUC Robots and Allen Bradley PLC’s, which are major stakeholders in current manufacturing, is what is used in the lab.”

The Automation Technician and Mechatronics Technician certificates will be offered at OHIO Chillicothe starting in fall 2026. These certificates have been offered by OHIO Lancaster at the Fairfield County Workforce Center since 2024.

Students in the two certificate programs at OHIO Chillicothe will develop their skills using the state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment at the Technology and Business Development Center.

“These certificates open doors for students at every stage - from high schoolers earning college credit through our College Credit Plus Statewide Innovative Waiver Pathway to adults looking to move quickly into a high-demand career,” said OHIO Chillicothe Interim Dean of Campus and Community Relations Mike Lafreniere. “OHIO Chillicothe is adding this curriculum to connect our community to the advanced manufacturing jobs coming to central Ohio, and these programs give students a fast, affordable path to get there.”

As automation continues to expand and dominate the advanced manufacturing environment, skilled technicians are needed to work both directly for manufacturers and as field service providers to set up and troubleshoot sensors, automated equipment and robots to ensure productivity. In the Automation Technician certificate program, students will be trained to operate and maintain tools like PLCs, robotic cells, variable frequency AC drives and other computer-controlled automation systems.

Similarly, the Mechatronics Technician Certificate will support the growing need for employees skilled in the application of electronics and mechanics, also known as mechatronics. Students in this program will perform preventative and corrective maintenance on electro-mechanical systems that include fluid-power, mechanical drives, electric motor control and PLCs.

“These programs demonstrate that Ohio University has listened to our industry partners and has adapted our educational pathways to provide high-quality training in a timely manner. The short-term nature of these programs allows students to build on their skillsets at a pace that suits their lifestyle and family budget. This makes them unique in the education marketplace in Ohio” said Scott Miller, associate dean of industry partnerships at the Russ College of Engineering and Technology.

The new certificate programs were created in consultation with local industry leaders to help them meet their advanced manufacturing needs.

"Providing a skilled workforce for employers in south central Ohio and the expanding high-tech manufacturing industry in the area is a priority for Ohio University and its regional campus system," Lewatis McNeal, vice provost for regional higher education and partnerships, said. "These certificates offer both a quick entry point to a new career and the beginning of a pathway for students interested in a two- or four-year degree.”

These new certificates support the goals of the Appalachian Semiconductor Education and Technical (ASCENT) Ecosystem, which is an initiative aimed to create an inclusive workforce development and training program to support Ohio’s growing advanced manufacturing and semiconductor industry.