IMMT Students Shine with Impressive Semester Projects and Certifications

ITTEC –  May 14 marked a milestone for the Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology (IMMT) program at Texas Southmost College (TSC), as students took center stage to showcase the results of their semester-long dedication to creativity, problem-solving, and technological innovation. This exhibition was more than just a display, it celebrated how classroom knowledge transforms into practical, real-world solutions.

The event spotlighted three exceptional student projects illustrating technical mastery and inventive thinking. These projects captured attention for their design and functionality and reflected the students’ deep understanding of industrial systems, robotics, and automation.

Water Level Indicator
Built using Arduino and precision sensors, this water level indicator offered an innovative solution to managing liquid containers. The system uses an ultrasonic sensor to detect when the water level reaches within 3 centimeters of the sensor. At that point, a set of LED lights illuminates and a buzzer sounds, signaling that the container is full. This project underscores how microcontroller programming can be applied in fluid monitoring systems, a critical component in various industries, including agriculture and manufacturing.

Hydraulic Press
Students also engineered a fully functional hydraulic press, a staple in industrial environments for tasks like forging, molding, and metal forming. The team constructed the press frame and meticulously assembled its components to replicate the functionality found in professional manufacturing equipment. This hands-on experience bridged theoretical hydraulics with tangible machine operations, enhancing the students’ understanding of force application and system integration.

Robot Hand
Perhaps the most captivating project was the robotic hand, designed to respond to physical touch. By embedding a force-sensitive resistor (FSR) in the palm, the students enabled the hand to detect when an object is touched or held. This signal is processed by an Arduino Uno, which then activates a servo motor to move the mechanical fingers. The result is a cost-effective, sensor-driven prototype that demonstrates the core principles of robotics and responsive motion.

In addition to the impressive demonstrations, the event also served as a celebration of academic achievement. A cohort of IMMT students earned SACA (Smart Automation Certification Alliance) certifications in Robotics for the first time in the TSC IMMT program. These industry-recognized credentials validate their proficiency in automation and robotics, setting them apart as workforce-ready professionals.

Juan Rivera, Instructor of Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology at Texas Southmost College, expressed his pride in the students’ accomplishments.

“Our students are proving they are ready to take on the challenges of today’s technical workforce,” said Rivera. “The creativity and technical skills they demonstrated in these projects, and the fact that many are now certified in robotics, show their dedication and potential. I’m incredibly proud of the work they’ve done this semester.”

The IMMT showcase successfully reaffirmed the value of project-based learning and industry certifications to help prepare students for future careers. As technology continues to shape the modern workplace, these students are simultaneously keeping pace and setting the standard. With their projects and new credentials in hand, they are eager to contribute to industries that thrive on innovation and skill. For more information on the Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology (IMMT) program at Texas Southmost College (TSC).