The Advanced Manufacturing Automation Technology (formerly Computer Integrated Manufacturing Technology - Robotics) program at VU is one of the most successful programs at the University for graduate placement and one of the highest paying. You should be aware that graduates of this program are not hit as hard during an economic downturn because of the diversity of areas that use automation in their manufacturing, such as; automotive assembly, automotive suppliers, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, packaging, energy, transportation, electronic devices, household products, consumer goods, plastic/rubber/metal products, textiles, printing, and many others. These are the jobs of the future and will continue to increase in growth because there is a shortage of people with the skills and knowledge to use and understand the different technologies involved in automated manufacturing.  The average starting salary has remained in the top five of all career/technology programs.  With the increasing number of people eligible for retirement and the increasing use of automation in manufacturing, the high job placement percentage will continue.