Automation and Systems Integration (Emphasis in Electronics Technology), Associate of Applied Science

The Associate of Applied Science in Automation and Systems Integration Technology is designed to prepare students for a career in the varied fields that require highly skilled technicians to install, maintain, and repair the technology intensive electronic equipment used in business and industry today. Positions that require this level of skill are as unique as the business or industry involved. These positions have many different titles including Automation Technician, Maintenance Technician, and Industrial Electrician. The salaries for these positions remain high and the demand continues to grow. Entry level Technician positions can grow to lifelong careers in business and industrial management. Regardless of the job title, the primary responsibilities of these positions are to keep the highly technical and computerized machines of business and industry working productively. Some of these positions see routine challenges while other industries provide constantly varying opportunities.  

This program provides two tracks or emphases to an Associate of Applied Science degree. The traditional track, the Emphasis in Electronics, starts with basic electronics theory and principles, schematic diagram interpretation, and use of basic test equipment.  This is followed by the detailed exploration of the operation of electronic devices and circuits during the first year of the program. The second year expands to include hands-on troubleshooting, programming and operation of industrial equipment like microcontrollers, programmable logic controllers (PLC), drive systems, and robotics. The goal of this track is to prepare a student to develop into a technician with very strong hardware and software skills.    

Program Learning Outcomes

• Enter the workforce and be gainfully employed.

• Understand safe operation and repair of electrical and industrial equipment.

• Interpret electrical and mechanical schematic diagrams.

• Correctly use basic electrical measuring instruments and apply readings to troubleshoot equipment.

• Perform basic repair operations and troubleshooting of electrical equipment. Including mechanical assembly, disassembly, and soldering of electrical circuits.

• Demonstrate the basic knowledge of automation equipment such as PLC’s and Robotics in an industrial or hospital setting.