Mechatronics

What I Do

Expose students to the hardware and software commonly found in automation applications. Teach them how to design, implement and troubleshoot PLC systems.

What I Like Most About My Job

Working through real world applications with students, creating experiences that they can take with them as they enter their careers

What I Like Best About CAM

The thing that I like best about the Center for Applied Mechatronics is the lack of complacency; the instructors are constantly looking at new technology as well as our industry partners bringing the technology in, ensuring that students understand the curriculum as well as its application to current as well as legacy products.

Education

• Alexandria Technical & Community College: Associate of Applied Science in Manufacturing Automation Technician
• St. Mary's University of Minnesota: Bachelor of Science Industrial Technology

Occupational History

• Boston Scientific Corporation, Maple Grove MN: Research & Development Technician
• The Aagard Group, Alexandria MN: Electrical Controls Engineer

"Mechatronics is a multidisciplinary field of applied engineering that includes a combination of systems, mechanical, Computer, electrical, telecommunications, control and Fluid power. As technology advances, the subfields of engineering multiply and adapt. Mechatronics' aim is a design process that unifies these subfields." —Todd Zarbok, Mechatronics Instructor

Life at the Center for applied Mechatronics

Todd has been an employee in the Center for Applied Mechatronics since 1997. Core Competencies include, Industrial Distribution, Electro Pneumatic Control Systems, Programmable logic Control, Hydraulic and Pneumatics

Profession Education...

• Accredited Fluid Power Instructor, International Fluid Power Society
• HS, HT, PS, PT, ECS certified, International Fluid Power Society
• Mechatronics Certificate, Packaging Machine Manufactures Institute
• Accredited Mechatronics Instructor, World Didactic Association

Typical day at the office...

Creating a learning environment that prepares students for the successful transition into the workforce.

What I like about my job...

Constant Industry interaction that allows me to identify next generation skills gap and find the right combination of technology and techniques to keep this program on the leading edge of Mechatronics training

Special projects...

Students from this program have won 13 National Skills USA Mechatronics Championships over the last 19 years.

Education

• B.S. Industrial Distribution - Bemidji State University 2005
• Certified Fluid Power Technician - 1998
• Fluid Power Diploma - Alexandria Technical & Community College 1983

Occupational History

• Certified Fluid Power Technician
• Sales Marketing
• Customer Service Manager
• Product Application Specialist

Joe is a 2002 graduate of the Mechatronics program. Right after graduation he started working at a local company where he designed roadway de-icing equipment. After that he designed lifting equipment that was used in various manufacturing processes. These machines utilized everything Mechatronics teaches: computer aided drafting (Solid Works CAD), hydraulics, pneumatics, electronic controls and programming. His machines are used nationwide by some of the biggest companies in business today. All of these past experiences, along with Joe’s lifelong passion for teaching others, has lead him back to the Mechatronics program as an instructor here at ATCC.

In addition to designing equipment for the past 20 years, Joe’s other passion is fishing. He is a professional fishing guide in the summer months where he continues to use his teaching skills, only in a boat. He then took his fishing skills to the next level, as he is now the Alexandria College Legends Fishing coach. The team was started in the fall of 2021 and has been competing at a local and national level.