Machine Operator/Mechatronics Assistant Certificate

Program Description

If you seek a hands-on career in the high-tech industry, and entry into the job market, consider a certificate as a Certified Machine Operator and Mechatronics Assistant. Our program prepares you to be an effective, interdisciplinary problem solver. You will learn to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering used in manufacturing, distribution, and processing. You will become efficient at operating complex machinery while troubleshooting and foreseeing production problems before they arise.

Program Overview

The Assistant Mechatronics program supplies local industries with knowledgeable machine operators who can operate, maintain, and perform preventative and routine maintenance on a variety of industrial equipment. The program is designed to prepare workers for the Key Train Applied Technology test, which many local employers require for employment. Program completers can also test to become Siemens Certified Assistant Technicians. This certification is recognized worldwide and will open many employment opportunities.

Students will gain an understanding of the technology utilized in modern distribution and processing industries. Hands-on laboratories, in areas such as electricity and electronics, mechanics, fluid power, motor controls, and the basics of programmable logic controllers will prepare students to be “work ready”. This program will give students a skill set that will make them ready for employment, and also pave the way for a continuation into the Mechatronics A.A.S. program to become a certified technician. Internships are available.

Program Outcomes

• Demonstrate professionalism (on time, positive attitude, respectful).
• Identify safety equipment.
• Practice team building and effective communication.
• Understand the technology utilized in modern distribution and processing industries.
• Identify tools and equipment.
• Write industrial PLCs (Programmable Logic Controls).
• Understand the fundamentals of Quality Control.
• Demonstrate how to properly set up, program, operate, maintain and troubleshoot a scaled manufacturing system.
• Understand advanced concepts and applications of fluid power technology including hydraulics and pneumatics.
• Demonstrate proper application and connection of electrical motors, transformers, and solenoids.

Career Opportunities

Machine Operators are in high demand around the globe, earning an average of $12 – $16 per hour, depending on their geographic region and the machine they operate. Prospective employers in the region include Procter and Gamble,  EcoLab, Quad Graphics, Ply Gen, Brentwood Industries, American Woodmark, Monoflo, O’Sullivan, Cenetic Landis, Automated Merchandising Systems, New World Pasta, and other firms in West Virginia, Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Southern Pennsylvania.

Many of these employers have tuition assistance programs, which will help the student to continue their education, toward an A.A.S. in Mechatronics.

Note: All salary estimations are based on the current position and educational trends. Blue Ridge Community and Technical College cannot guarantee that the projections given will be the salaries students or graduates will ultimately receive.