⚙️ Advanced Manufacturing & Robotics • Cluster
Design, Build, and Automate the Future
From mechatronics and precision machining to industrial robotics and quality systems, this cluster powers modern production.
+21%
Projected growth by 2030 (sector aggregate)
Top Emerging Roles
Robotics Technician
- Install, program, and maintain robot cells
- PLC basics, sensors, safety
Median: $X
Growth: +X%
Mechatronics Specialist
- Electro-mechanical troubleshooting
- Automation & control systems
Median: $X
Growth: +X%
Process / Quality Engineer
- Lean/Six Sigma, SPC, documentation
- Continuous improvement
Median: $X
Growth: +X%
Top Skills & Tools
Systems Thinking
Safety & Quality Mindset
Collaboration
Problem Solving
Pathways
Majors & Certificates
- Manufacturing Engineering, Mechatronics
- CTE: CNC, Industrial Maintenance
Early Experience
- Robotics club, SkillsUSA, makerspace
- Apprenticeships & co-ops
Learn & Practice
- OSHA-10, Intro PLC
- Build/Document a capstone project
RIASEC Alignment
You match strongly with Realistic and Conventional dimensions for this cluster.
R — Realistic
C — Conventional
I — Investigative
Your Next 3 Steps
- Complete OSHA-10 & intro PLC badge
- Join robotics/SkillsUSA and build a project
- Shadow a local plant or automation integrator
Career Spotlight
“Learning PLCs in class and building a small robot arm in our makerspace helped me land a co-op at an automation firm.” — Student, Class of ’26