The college began functioning in 1962 with three branches—Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering. Since then, the Mechanical Engineering Department has produced graduates who have achieved notable success in employment, entrepreneurship, and higher education. The department is supported by a strong alumni network working in India and abroad and has consistently excelled in academic and extracurricular activities at the state level.

The Placement Cell of SSM Polytechnic College actively facilitates placements for mechanical engineering students in reputed companies such as Bajaj Auto Limited, V-Guard Industries, Mahindra & Mahindra, MRF Tyres, TVS Motor Company, and Mercedes-Benz. Over the past decade, nearly 50% of the students have pursued higher studies and performed excellently in their academic careers.

The department encourages innovation and leadership through student projects, training programmes, and association activities. Notably, the student project “White Box”, developed to prevent road accidents, received a grant of ₹2,00,000 from the Kerala Startup Mission, reflecting the department’s commitment to technical excellence and societal impact.