Classes in new Systems Engineering Technology option start this fall

Hanceville, AL — Wallace State Community College announces a new Computer Science program option offering certificates and a two-year associate degree in Systems Engineering Technology focusing on the field of model-based systems engineering (MBSE).

Developed with IDEA, the Institute for Digital Enterprise Advancement, the curriculum focuses on providing training for systems engineering concepts, modeling methods and how model-based systems engineering fits into the current and future digital environment. Systems engineering technicians will serve as data management support staff for systems engineers in fields related to aerospace and the defense industry, but the concept could branch out into many other fields.

The curriculum includes six courses:

• Introduction to Systems Engineering (SYS101)
• Systems Modeling (SYS231, SYS232, SYS233)
• MBSE in Digital Environment (SYS221)
• Capstone (SYS241), which includes a real-world project in support of an industry partner.

Completion of those six courses leads to a short-term certificate in Systems Engineering. Options are also available for the short-term certificate in programming and an associate degree in Systems Engineering Technology.

The program is available for traditional students, as well as dual enrollment students from area high schools.

Industry partners will play a large role in the courses, with paid internships available to students in the program and the possibility of apprenticeship as well.

Perhaps one of the more attractive features of the field is that in most cases, work can be completed remotely. Additionally, this field offers a greater scope for creativity compared to what might be necessary in alternative domains of computer-based engineering.

“We are excited to be a part of this emerging field,” said Greg Knight, instructor for the Wallace State SET program. “The possibilities for applying model-based systems engineering are extensive, reaching into numerous modalities, business sectors and industries.”

For more information about the Systems Engineering Technology option, contact Greg Knight at 256.352.8158 or gregory.knight@wallacestate.edu or visit www.wallacestate.edu/set

Registration is underway for summer Mini Term II and Fall 2023. Summer Mini Term II classes begin June 30. Fall 2023 classes begin Aug. 18. For more information, visit www.wallacestate.edu, call 256.352.8000, or come by Lion Central in the lobby of the James C. Bailey Center Monday-Wednesday 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or Friday 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.