Once a student graduates, there are many opportunities moving forward. Below are paths and resources that you or your student can use to move forward with.
Colleges
Michigan colleges with robotics education include the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor and Dearborn), Michigan Technological University, Lawrence Technological University, Saginaw Valley State University, Oakland Community College, and Delta College, which offer degrees, certificates, or technician training in the field. Many other universities like Ferris State University, Wayne State University, and Grand Valley State University also offer relevant programs, often through their engineering departments.
Universities with specific robotics degrees
- University of Michigan – Ann Arbor: Offers an undergraduate and graduate program in Robotics.
- Michigan Technological University: Provides a degree in robotics engineering.
- University of Michigan-Dearborn: Offers a Bachelor of Science in Robotics Engineering.
- Lawrence Technological University: Has robotics programs available.
- Saginaw Valley State University: Offers relevant engineering programs like Electrical Engineering and Engineering Technology Management, with a focus on robotics.
Colleges with technician training and certificates
- Oakland Community College: Provides training for a PLC & Robotic Technician role.
- Delta College: Offers programs in Computer Science and Information Technology, which can lead to roles in programming and IT support related to robotics.
- Grand Valley State University: Has robotics programs available.
- Kettering University: Has robotics programs available.
- Ferris State University: Has robotics programs available.
Other universities with related programs
- University of Detroit Mercy: Offers robotics and automation-related programs.
- Wayne State University: Has robotics programs available.
- Lake Superior State University: Has robotics programs available.
- Northern Michigan University: Has robotics programs available.
- Andrews University: Has robotics programs available.
Trade Schools
Michigan trade schools and community colleges with robotics education include Oakland Community College and Lansing Community College, which offer robotics and automation technology programs. Other options for hands-on training in robotics include Wayne County Community College for related automotive and technical fields and the vocational centers in Detroit, such as Golightly Career and Technical Center.
Trade schools and community colleges
- Oakland Community College: Offers an Associate’s degree in Robotics & Automated Systems Technology and is highly ranked for robotics technology programs.
- Lansing Community College: Has strong robotics engineering programs that ranked highly in Michigan.
- Wayne County Community College: Offers an Associate’s degree in Auto Body Technology, and other technical programs, though specific robotics programs were not listed.
- Washtenaw Community College: Ranked #2 in overall quality for robotics technology schools in Michigan.
- Golightly Career and Technical Center: Located in Detroit, this center offers various career and technical training programs.
Other educational options
- University of Michigan-Dearborn: Offers a Bachelor’s degree in Robotics Engineering.
- Wayne State University: Provides degrees in chemical engineering that can lead to careers in robotics.
Local Employers
Employers in St. Clair County That Are Ideal for FIRST Robotics Alumni
1. P.J. Wallbank Springs, Inc. (Port Huron)
- Engineering-focused manufacturer specializing in spring pack technology for automotive transmissions.
- Designs and builds much of its own equipment — excellent fit for alumni with mechanical design, automation, and problem-solving experience.
- Known for supporting local STEM and robotics programs; regularly hires technical talent.
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2. SMR Automotive / Motherson
- Major automotive component supplier in the region.
- Strong opportunities in production engineering, automation, quality, and process improvement.
3. ZF Axle Drives (Marysville)
- Global automotive supplier with local manufacturing operations.
- Suitable for roles involving mechanical systems, assembly automation, control systems, and reliability engineering.
4. Magna Electric Vehicle Structures
- EV-focused manufacturer working on lightweight structures and advanced assembly systems.
- Robotics alumni can excel in robotics-assisted manufacturing, battery module assembly, and CAD/design roles.
5. Flash Steelworks
- High-tech steel processing facility.
- Great match for alumni interested in materials engineering, process control, testing, and advanced manufacturing technology.
6. Aludyne, Auto Anodics and Other Manufacturers in the Advanced Manufacturing Park
- Located within Port Huron’s Technology & Advanced Manufacturing Park.
- Offer hands-on technical work in CNC machining, component assembly, automation support, and engineering.
Why FIRST Robotics Alumni Excel in These Companies
- Technical readiness: Familiarity with CAD, programming, sensors, pneumatics, and control systems matches manufacturing workflows.
- Hands-on problem solving: Experience designing, debugging, and iterating under pressure translates directly to engineering and production roles.
- Team-driven mindset: These employers rely on cross-functional collaboration—something FIRST develops deeply.
- Adaptability: Many companies on this list are expanding or adopting new technologies, creating space for early-career technical talent to grow.