A student working in the Electronics and Automation Lab.
Enrolling in the Applied Engineering Technology Management program at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville offers students a unique pathway to a dynamic and impactful career across three key disciplines: engineering technology management, construction management and technology and engineering education. Formerly known as the Department of Industrial Studies, it equips students with specialized knowledge and practical skills highly sought after in today’s job market.
“Our Bachelor of Science programs in applied engineering technology effectively bridge the gap between a two-year technology degree and a full engineering degree,” said Dr. Wayne Weber, dean of the College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture. “These programs emphasize hands-on experiential learning in our state-of-the-art labs, covering robotics, control systems, automation, metals and more. Students also gain industry experience through required internships with our many industry partners.”
The Engineering Technology Management bachelor’s degree, previously named Industrial Technology Management, has been rebranded to better reflect students’ goals and objectives. Accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering, this degree prepares students for careers where they can innovate within manufacturing and other sectors, focusing on resolving issues in manufacturing processes. Professionals in this field leverage their expertise to propose improvements to operational methods, equipment layouts and material handling practices.
“Graduates with this degree become go-to problem solvers for engineers,” explained Dr. Chris Carlson, chair of the Department of Applied Engineering Technology Management and assistant professor. “It blends engineering, technical skills, machining and management. I’ve seen graduates start as technical experts but eventually move into management roles.”
Carlson emphasizes that the four-year degree provides a broad education and competitive edge over those with a two-year degree. “It significantly enhances your value in the job market. There’s a list of opportunities a mile long in manufacturing and trades, waiting for skilled workers to pick their trade.”
David Rosandich, a senior originally from Oak Creek, Wisconsin, initially earned an associate’s degree in welding technology at MATC in Milwaukee before transferring to UW-Platteville for his Bachelor of Science in engineering technology management. “The degree at UW-Platteville definitely expanded my knowledge base and opportunities. The campus and classroom environments felt close-knit, and I could tell my professors were enthusiastic about teaching. A smaller university meant I developed strong relationships with my teachers.”
The strength of the program rests on the shoulders of its dedicated faculty and staff who guide students through rigorous coursework. Rosandich now works as a manufacturing engineer at Eaton Corporation in Waukesha, Wisconsin, but plans to return to academia later in his career, possibly to teach at a community college.
“As a student teacher in welding for Dr. Kyle Metzloff, I discovered a passion for teaching. Down the road I may pursue a master’s degree and teach full time.”
The Applied Engineering Technology Management program at UW-Platteville exemplifies where theory meets practice. Through on-campus labs and work opportunities, students move beyond textbooks to experience real-world environments.
“Studying applied engineering technology management offers a unique opportunity to grow both knowledge and skills while also allowing hands-on experience,” said Natalie Kreier, a senior from Clear Lake, Wisconsin, who is also a student-athlete on the track and cross-country teams. “Dr. Carlson helped me tailor my coursework to accommodate my 20-hour a week job, athletic commitments and academic load. This showed me how invested they are in our success.”
Currently, Kreier works as an industrial engineer at Hodge in Dubuque, Iowa, and plans to pursue her master’s degree at UW-Platteville after completing her undergraduate studies.
“Prior to taking my training and supervision class with Dr. Martin White I didn’t know about career pathways at Hodge, and he played a key role in helping me secure my job,” she said. “This experience demonstrates how the professors are committed to our long-term success.”
Each student follows a unique path but shares a commitment to learning that aligns with their interests and career aspirations, supported by their four-year degree in applied engineering technology management. They will eventually turn that into a career — for many recent grads, that happens sooner rather than later.
“These exceptional learning opportunities ensure our graduates are highly sought after, boasting a 96% first destination placement rate upon graduation,” said Weber.
In a time where jobs might seem scarce or hard to come by, these UW-Platteville students walk off campus and into the world with experience, connections and knowledge that will propel them forward for years to come.
Written by Christine Bellport
Link to original story: https://www.uwplatt.edu/news/whats-name-how-newly-named-applied-engineering-technology-management-department-propelling-student