Mechanical Engineering Technology Concentration

Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) in advanced manufacturing focuses on applying engineering principles to design, operate, troubleshoot, and improve modern manufacturing systems and equipment. MET professionals work with CNC machines, robotics, automation systems, CAD/CAM software, materials, and quality control tools to turn designs into precise, high‑quality products. They emphasize hands‑on problem‑solving, process optimization, equipment maintenance, and production efficiency rather than purely theoretical design. Mechanical engineering technologists bridge the gap between engineers and the factory floor, ensuring that advanced manufacturing systems run safely, efficiently, and reliably.

The Mechanical Engineering Concentration provides practice in the ability to improve integrated systems, optimize manufacturing processes, adopt state-of-the-art materials, and produce superior quality products at minimal cost. Coursework provides students an opportunity to understand the operation and function of more complex technologies used in manufacturing.

Entry‑Level MET Roles

Typical Colorado Salary Range: $55,980 to $60,100

Typical titles

• Mechanical Engineer
• Manufacturing Engineer

What you do:

• Support mechanical engineers and production teams
• Equipment operation and basic troubleshooting
• Reading mechanical drawings and CAD models
• Performing inspections, testing, and measurements

Time in role: 1-3 years

Mid‑Level / Senior MET Roles

Typical Colorado Salary Range: $74,000 to $81,000

Typical titles

• Senior Mechanical Engineer
• Manufacturing Engineer
• Process or Automation Engineer

What you do:

• Advanced troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis
• Process improvement and production optimization
• Supporting CNC, automation, robotics, and quality systems
• Acting as a technical resource for teams and projects

Time in role: 3-7 years

Advanced / Lead & Supervisory Roles

Typical Colorado Salary Range: $103,000 to $110,000

Typical titles

• Lead Mechanical Engineer
• Engineering Technologist
• Manufacturing or Maintenance Supervisor

What you do:

• Lead and mentor technical teams
• Oversee equipment selection and installation
• Coordinate reliability, safety, and efficiency initiatives
• Act as liaison between technicians, engineers, and management

Time in role: 7-12 years

What This Means for Students and Early‑Career MET Professionals

• MET professionals earn salaries comparable to early‑career engineers
• MET professionals are promoted faster due to hands‑on capability
• Employers often prefer MET backgrounds for production‑facing roles

Salary Data: Salary.com, Indeed, Glassdoor and ZipRecruiter