Robotic and Computerized Control Technician

Application Code:
0499
Degree Received:
Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS)

Description:

This program provides instruction for those interested in working in the growing and exciting field of industrial automation. Freshmen are required to lease or purchase a laptop computer to be used for their two years of study. Students receive instruction and hands-on training in robotics, automated process control, automated equipment, digital electronics, computerized documentation, computerized equipment control, programmable logic control (PLC), fabrication, AC & DC motors and control systems, electronic instrumentation, and the associated peripheral devices necessary for all of the above.

Laboratory and classroom instruction places an emphasis on robotic principles, programming/control and the interaction between robotics and industrial processes. Students also learn and work with established procedures for calibrating instruments, equipment installation, system repair/maintenance, and the operating principles relating to electromechanical, electro-hydraulic, and electro-pneumatic apparatus. The program has purchased a new Industrial ABB servo operation, five-axis robot that students will program, troubleshoot, and maintain. Individual and group efforts are required and communications skills are stressed throughout the two years of study. Seniors will spend their last five weeks of study working in groups, designing, building, and proving proper operation of an automated system of their choosing. This final project allows the students to incorporate all of the knowledge they have gained throughout their two years of study at Alfred State College. The robotic and computerized control technician program has an active student chapter of the Instrumentation, Systems and Automation Society (ISA), and students are afforded the opportunity to attend meetings with the Rochester Chapter of the ISA.

A laptop computer is required for students entering the robotic and computerized control technician program.

Scholarships

Three scholarships are awarded to senior students each year:

  • Two $1,200 scholarships are awarded by the Rochester Chapter of the Instrument Society of America.
  • A Matthew Burzycki Memorial Scholarship (approx. $800) is also awarded

Entrance Requirements & Recommendations:

  • Math A (algebra) recommended

Features & Facilities:

  • Provides instruction for those students interested in working with industrial automation and robotics
  • Students build projects that use the knowledge and skills they have acquired as well as a great deal of individual creativity

Graduation Requirements:

A student must successfully complete all courses in the prescribed four-semester program and earn a minimum cumulative index of 2.0, which is equivalent to a "C" average.

Career Opportunities:

  • Electromechanical Technician
  • Process Mechanic
  • Automation Mechanic (Robotics)
  • Instrument Apprentice
  • Industrial Maintenance Technician
  • Technical Field Representative
  • Field Service Technician
  • Engineering Technician
  • Automated Control Systems Technician
  • Robotic Field Service Technician

Typical Semester Layout:

Students receive 1,800 hours of practical experience and classroom training in the two years at the Wellsville campus. Approximately 1,400 hours are hands-on lab work. Classes start at 8 a.m. and end at 2:50 p.m. each day.

First Semester credits
ELTR 1116 Basic Electricity 6
ELTR 1118 Basic Electricity Lab 8
ELTR 1114 Fabrication Lab 4
      18
Second Semester credits
ELTR 2113 Wiring Practices & Motors Controls 3
ELTR 2123 Digital Electronics for Industry 3
ELTR 2126 Industrial Digital Lab 6
ELTR 2136 Wiring & Control Lab 6
      18
Third Semester credits
ELTR 3116 Automatic Robotic Equipment 6
ELTR 3126 Automatic Equipment Lab 6
ELTR 3136 Automated Equipment Lab II 6
      18
Fourth Semester credits
ELTR 4116 Instrumentation & Process Controls 6
ELTR 4126 Instrumentation & Process Controls Lab 6
ELTR 4136 Process Control Project Lab 6
      18
Employment and Transfer Report
Employment and Transfer Rate:
88%
Survey Details200420052006
Receiving Degrees 15 7 9
Responding to Survey 14 (93%_ 7 (100%) 8 (89%)
Employed 8 (58%) -- 5 (63%)
Employed in Field 7 (100%) -- --
Transfered 3 (21%) 2 (29%) 2 (25%)
Unemployed & Seeking Employment 2 (14%) 5 (71%) --
Unemployed & Not Seeking Employment 1 (7%) -- 1 (12%)
Salary Information
NACE Annual Average Salary Survey Data
(2003-04 survey for associate degree program;
2006-07 for baccalaureate degree program)
N/A
DOL Annual Mean Salary
(2006 survey for those employed in this career path)
$45,700