Mechanical Design Technology
The Mechanical Design Technology AAS-T degree prepares students for careers as Technicians, Drafters, Designers, and Assistant Engineers with mechanical engineering firms (e.g.: aeronautics, aerospace, medical, industrial manufacturing, consumer products, etc.) in the Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, and other surrounding areas. Graduates of the program can also seek professional positions in other areas around Washington state and the United States. Mechanical Design Technology program is part of the School of Engineering, Science & Math.
Through hands-on individual and collaborative projects, students receive a solid foundation in designing for manufacturability, quality, and function by applying elements and principles of mechanical design. Students will learn how to apply geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure functional design and interchangeability of mating parts (ASME Y14.5-2018). Classes are small with significant individual attention.
Students will create complete, complex, and accurate fabrication drawings and digital models, per industry standards, using the latest in Computer Aided Design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks and other design software.
Students will have the opportunity to get their AutoCAD certified user certificate by taking the AutoCAD certified user exam as part of the AutoCAD class's final requirement. Students can also have the opportunity to get their SolidWorks certificate by taking the Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) exam as part of the SolidWorks class's final requirement.
In the maker space Innovation Lab and related classes, students will develop skills using rapid prototyping / digital fabrication software and tools (such as 3D printers) to fabricate their designs in a supported, collaborative, hands-on environment. A suite of technology tools will be taught in line with industry standards. Students will have the opportunity to not only create designs for classes but also for prototyping their own ideas.
Students interested in pursuing LWTech’s Bachelor of Applied Science in Design program, and/or a career in industrial design or product design are encouraged to enroll in these courses.
Additional Mechanical Design Technology Program Information
At LWTech, we welcome all students as an open enrollment college and we are committed to your inclusion at the college. The Mechanical Design Technology program of study leads to an industry or specific employers that may not hire individuals with certain types of convictions, immigration status or involvement in suspicious activity. Examples of common background checks required in this industry are criminal, immigration, and character witnesses.
Entry into the Mechanical Design Technology program requires completion of LWTech's general online application.
Additional Admission Considerations
Not Sure Where to Start?
Lake Washington Institute of Technology does not offer every course each quarter. It is the student's responsibility to consult the Class Schedule and work out an individual schedule with an advisor or counselor. Any developmental coursework a student might be required to complete may increase the program length.
Explore Careers and Paths in Mechanical Design Technology
Lake Washington Institute of Technology is proud of the many pathway options our students have to complete an Applied Bachelor’s degree, both at LWTech, and at in-state universities and colleges. All degrees, whether DTA/MRP, AAS-T or AAS, can fulfill transfer requirements at multiple institutions thanks to the articulation (transfer) agreements between LWTech and the transfer college.
An applied bachelor's degree can improve your chances in the job market and help you make more money. Employers want graduates with:
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Complex problem-solving skills
- Applied knowledge in real-world settings
- A broad (rather than narrow) education
To learn more about transferring to another college or university, please visit our Transferring from LWTech page.
Economic Recovery Community Consortium Members
LWTech’s Economic Recovery Community Consortium is connecting students to industry and industry to our students. COVID-19 has been devastating to families and businesses across Washington state, almost immediately impacting our state’s economy.
