Mechanical Engineering
- OVERVIEW
- ADVANTAGES
- CAREERS
- FACULTY
Overview
Mechanical engineering is the essential component of industries that rely on imagination, ingenuity and skill to implement their ideas. This is a very broad and continuously evolving field which focuses on the design of machines and mechanical systems - from miniature machines like Micro-Electrical-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) to incredible large and complex systems such as the Space Shuttle launch vehicle. The Mechanical Engineering program delivers thorough grounding in engineering fundamentals along with study of robotics, controls, machine design, and numerical modeling with curriculum tracks in robotics or propulsion. One area of focus includes uninhabited aerial vehicles (UAVs), planetary rovers and autonomous space vehicles; a second area is the design of propulsion systems including jet engines.
In this degree area the program requirements give students at Embry-Riddle Prescott the advantage of numerous hands-on lab and design experiences. Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Modeling (CAM) software offer experience with industry-level solid modeling, finite elements, and computational fluid dynamics. Students use their knowledge, test analyses, and work in a team environment using modern equipment and the most relevant current tools and techniques of engineering analysis, design, and production.
Advantages
- Our graduates are better prepared to enter the workforce after training that mirrors the real-life experiences and processes of industry engineers in a team setting.
- The Senior Design Project is an experience that demonstrates to employers the ability to work with realistic constraints and practical considerations.
- State-of-the-art lab facilities for coursework and special projects include a rapid prototyping lab, wind tunnel, manufacturing lab, composite lab, materials lab, machine shop, electronics labs, robotics lab, and propulsion lab.
- Mechanical engineering students have opportunities for co-ops and internships with companies who consistently look to our campus for future employees: Boeing, Gulfstream, Lockheed Martin, Cessna, Sikorsky, Rolls Royce and many others.
Careers
Aviation, aerospace, automotive, medical and manufacturing industries are just a few of the options that await graduates of this diverse major. Potential career opportunities include:
- Government Agencies
- Chemicals & Allied Products
- Propulsion
- Food & Beverage Processing
- Biotechnology
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Faculty
Aerospace Engineering
Program Chair and Associate Professor of Aerospace Engineering. Dr. Sensmeier's areas of expertise are aerospace structures and optimization. He formerly worked for Arnold Engineering Development Center and General Electric Aircraft Engines.
Assistant Professor
Mechanical Engineering
An Assistant Professor in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Nafziger created and heads up the Robotics Laboratory. His areas of expertise are machine vision and kinematics & dynamics of robot manipulators. Dr. Nafziger is also a competitive aerobatic pilot.
Associate Professor
Mechanical Engineering
An Associate Professor in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Haven recently joined the Prescott faculty after a career in the United States Air Force where she was very active in the propulsion arena.
