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ZENODO
Article . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: ZENODO
ZENODO
Article . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Article . 2026
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
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Developing a Competency-Based Automation, Robotics & Manufacturing Technology (ARMTech) Program: A Case Study from Quinsigamond Community College

Authors: Loi, Hao; Heffernan, James;

Developing a Competency-Based Automation, Robotics & Manufacturing Technology (ARMTech) Program: A Case Study from Quinsigamond Community College

Abstract

This paper presents the development and early outcomes of the Student Produced Autonomous Robotic Creations (SPARC) project at Quinsigamond Community College (QCC), funded by an NSF Advanced Technological Education (ATE) grant (#1954577). Responding to the shortage of skilled automation and robotics technicians in Massachusetts, the project created the 29-credit Automation, Robotics & Manufacturing Technology (ARMTech) certificate program and two optional Robotics Operating System (ROS) courses. Guided by a Business and Industry Leadership Team (BILT) and DACUM analysis, the curriculum was aligned with employer-identified competencies and supported by upgraded laboratories featuring FANUC robots, Amatrol systems, and Automation Studio™. Faculty development emphasized project-based learning, while targeted outreach addressed the underrepresentation of women in STEM through partnerships with the National Institute for Women in Trades, Technology & Science (IWITTS) and women-focused recruitment events. Early results include growing enrollment, direct industry partnerships with Amazon Robotics and regional employers, and pathways that connect certificate completers both to employment opportunities and to stackable credentials leading to associate and bachelor’s degree programs. This case study contributes practical insights for developing industry-aligned, competency-based technician programs and broadening participation in advanced manufacturing and robotics education.

Related Organizations
Keywords

robotics, workforce development, manufacturing technology, STEM education, women in STEM, community college, NSF ATE, automation

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
Green