How to become a Robotic Engineer?

Sophia, a resident of Saudi Arabia, the first humanoid is actually a Robot. Her interview that was aired on news channels across the world took everyone by surprise and her humanness captivated us. So how wonderful would it be if we could create one of our own? Well, while a majority of the population loves the technological advancement, only a small percentage of us want to get into robotics. And lack of information, scope, a difficult course etc. are considered to be the possible reasons for there being not many robotic engineers in India.

How can you become a Robotic Engineer?

An individual will initially need to procure a bachelor's qualification in engineering. Courses in robotics commonly incorporate general understanding in pneumatics and hydraulics, numerically controlled systems, CADD/CAM systems, integrated systems, logic, and microprocessors. Since Robotics depends intensely on the mastery of a few engineering disciplines, like electrical, manufacturing, industrial, electronic, or mechanical engineering.

Educational background in Steps-

Study Science and Math Courses in High School

Get proficient algebra and trigonometry, computer-aided design, computer science, and physics in your school for getting ready to start an engineering profession. It is additionally prudent to take part in robotics competitions or be a part of a robotics club to develop an interest and gather knowledge early on.

Earn a Bachelor's Degree

Robotics is not a separate field of Engineering, it is more of an extension of the various engineering disciplines. It is likewise great to have a bachelor's qualification in mechanical or electronics engineering or any other engineering course which is allied to this field.

Complete an Internship

There are heaps of organizations offering internships jobs on robotics and engineering. Your initial focus would be to understand the field well and get a relevant work experience. You can utilise this time to network which might prove beneficial when you start working.

Master’s degree and Research

In order to be really proficient in the field of Robotics, you can opt for specialisation or a Master’s program in Robotics and start with your research in this field. Whatever advancement that we are witnessing in the field of Robotics is majorly due to the research output. You need to apply your existing knowledge and create something out of it. Some great examples include Kuri by Mayfield Robotics, Sony Aibo etc.

Institutions in India that teach Robotics

Here are some institutions in India which offers specialisation in Robotics-

• The Centre for Robotics and Mechatronics at IIT-Kanpur offers a masters programme in Robotics Engineering.
• Jadhavpur University, Kolkata, offers M.E. Robotics.
• The University of Hyderabad offers M.Tech. In Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.
• University College of Engineering under Osmania University, Hyderabad, offers M.E. / M.Tech. In Automation and Robotics.
• M.S. University, Baroda, conducts a masters programme with specialization in automation control and robotics.
• The Institute of Technology under the Banaras Hindu University conducts M.Tech. Production Engineering/ Industrial Management Engineering with Robotics and Automation as electives.
• Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology conducts M.E. in CAD/ CAM and Robotics.
• The Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani, offers M.E. in Computer Science with robotics as a subject.

Uses of Robotics

Robots are replacing humans in completing many tasks which are risky and too complex for humans to perform. Commercial and industrial robots are now in widespread use performing jobs more cheaply or with greater accuracy and reliability than humans. They are also employed for jobs which are too dirty, dangerous or dull to be suitable for humans. Robots are widely used in manufacturing, assembly and packing, transport, earth and space exploration, surgery, weaponry, laboratory research, and mass production of consumer and industrial goods.

Job Prospect

A candidate having an M.E. degree in Robotics can apply for working in space research associations like ISRO and likewise in industries which manufacture microchips. Openings for work likewise exist in Indian Institute of Technology for doing extensive research work in artificial intelligence. Furthermore, The Indian Institute of Chemical Biology offers openings for research fellowships in Robotics and Artificial Intelligence. NASA is the ultimate employment destination for those interested in applying robotics to space science. In India, associations like BHEL, BARC, ISRO and DRDO besides other companies like Tata and Jindal do recruit engineers who are specialized in the field of robotics. Abroad, the scope for career advancement is bottomless. Companies like Intel recruit robotics and artificial intelligence specialists for microchip manufacturing. The Robotics Industrial Association in North America provide openings for work in robot manufacturing and maintenance systems integration. Research fellowships as an intern with ATR, the premier research institute emphasizing on humanoid robotics and computational neuroscience is likewise available.