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Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering

Manufacturing

Unlock the power to innovate by tackling real-world challenges in advanced manufacturing systems and designing the products and processes of the future.

Robotic engineer automatic mechanic checking quality system of automation robot arms machine in factory. Service programming machinery welding robots in production at factory industry.

There are many opportunities in a wide array of fields:

  • Advanced Manufacturing System Desing and Processes
  • Robotics and Automation
  • Lean Manufacturing
  • Quality Management
  • Project Management
  • Equipment Development

The Manufacturing specialization supports the development of these key skills:

  • Operations Management
  • Improvement of product and process design
  • Electricity, Sensors, and Control Systems
  • Applied Engineering Principles

Beyond the foundations, Manufacturing students dive into dynamic courses that prepare them for real-world impact, such as:

  • Occupational Safety
  • Total Quality Improvement
  • Advanced Manufacturing and Metals Processing
  • Fluid Power Systems Technology
  • Managing Technology Projects

Forge your own path! This specialization is flexible and customizable, allowing you to shape your studies around your passions and launch the career you envision.

Student using water-cutter machine, pushing buttons in the program side of it.

Potential Employers

  • Danfoss
  • Collins Aerospace
  • Emerson process Mgmt.
  • HNI Corporation
  • Lockheed Martin
  • Nike, Inc.
  • Pella
  • SICK, Inc
  • Tesla, Inc.
  • Students and industry members in utility plant discussing technology

    Positions for Manufacturing graduates

    • Manufacturing Engineer
    • Designer/Drafter/Detailer
    • Design Engineer*
    • Design Technician
    • Process Engineer*
    • Plant Manager
    • Mechanical Applications Engineer*
    • Development Engineer*
    • Learning Consultant
    • Cost Center Manager
    • Quality Assurance

    *Industrial Technology graduates are not licensed engineers, although employers may place them in positions with “engineering” in the job title.

Want to learn more?

Ask us about how to add a Feed Technology Minor or Occupational Safety certificate to your Manufacturing curriculum.

Contact Tamara Kerns, academic advisor at tkerns@iastate.edu with questions about the Manufacturing option and ITEC major.

 

Are you looking to hire Manufacturing graduates?

At Iowa State, we prepare manufacturing graduates who are ready to add value from day one. Our students gain the ability to solve complex technical problems, understand and improve design and manufacturing processes, lead teams with authenticity, maintain a strong focus on safety, drive quality improvement, manage projects effectively, and apply a systems-thinking approach to challenges.

Through a curriculum that integrates science, engineering, and management principles, our graduates develop a well-rounded skill set that connects technology with real-world manufacturing needs.

Employers hire Iowa State graduates for their readiness to contribute across industries in roles involving equipment testing, advanced manufacturing processes, automation and control systems, quality and operations management, and safety leadership.

Get Involved!

We are always looking for ways to connect students to industry experiences, host professionals in the classroom, and create unique hands-on activities to build career-ready graduates.

For more information on ways to get involved, contact Tamara Kerns, academic advisor at tkerns@iastate.edu.