Electronics engineering technicians assist in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of advanced control systems used in automated production facilities. These technicians work in power plants, chemical production facilities, automotive and tire manufacturing, food processing plants, and environmental control agencies, as well as many other automated control applications. Engineering Technology is applied to a wide variety of systems in the area of process control that require specialized programming to ensure that these control systems operate efficiently and automatically.
The specialization in Engineering Technology Programming prepares technicians to install, program, operate, maintain, service, and diagnose control system operational problems encountered on a routine basis as well as prepare for new installations and system upgrades.
Engineering technicians primarily use the principles and theories of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to solve technical problems and develop programming solutions; therefore, prospective engineering technicians should take as many high school science and math courses as possible to prepare for this postsecondary associate degree program. Laboratory work in this program complements the theory taught in the classroom. Most students complete the program in four semesters and one summer session. Good communication skills and the ability to work well with others are also important since engineering technicians are often part of an engineering team.
Employment opportunities in the area of automated process control and engineering technology programming are expected to continue to grow. Increasing demand for more sophisticated electrical and computer controlled systems will continue as industrial and manufacturing processes are designed, constructed, and upgraded.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Electronics Engineering Technology Department is to provide the student with a quality well-rounded education. This, in turn, will enhance the student’s economic and social well-being and provide industry with a highly skilled work force.
Program Educational Objectives
Our mission statement leads to the following program objectives that are also consistent with our industry identified program outcomes. Graduates of the OCtech Electronics Engineering Technology program will:
Accrediting Agency:
Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET http://www.abet.org
Electronics engineering technicians assist in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of advanced control systems used in automated production facilities. These technicians work in power plants, chemical production facilities, automotive and tire manufacturing, food processing plants, and environmental control agencies, as well as many other automated control applications. Engineering Technology is applied to a wide variety of systems in the area of process control that require specialized programming to ensure that these control systems operate efficiently and automatically.
The specialization in Engineering Technology Programming prepares technicians to install, program, operate, maintain, service, and diagnose control system operational problems encountered on a routine basis as well as prepare for new installations and system upgrades.
Engineering technicians primarily use the principles and theories of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to solve technical problems and develop programming solutions; therefore, prospective engineering technicians should take as many high school science and math courses as possible to prepare for this postsecondary associate degree program. Laboratory work in this program complements the theory taught in the classroom. Most students complete the program in four semesters and one summer session. Good communication skills and the ability to work well with others are also important since engineering technicians are often part of an engineering team.
Employment opportunities in the area of automated process control and engineering technology programming are expected to continue to grow. Increasing demand for more sophisticated electrical and computer controlled systems will continue as industrial and manufacturing processes are designed, constructed, and upgraded.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Electronics Engineering Technology Department is to provide the student with a quality well-rounded education. This, in turn, will enhance the student’s economic and social well-being and provide industry with a highly skilled work force.
Program Educational Objectives
Our mission statement leads to the following program objectives that are also consistent with our industry identified program outcomes. Graduates of the OCtech Electronics Engineering Technology program will:
Accrediting Agency:
Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET http://www.abet.org
The nature and purpose of the Engineering Design Technology (EDT) program at OCtech is to prepare graduates with demonstrated professional competence in converting engineering products, ideas, and solutions into 2D CAD drawings and 3D CAD parametric drawing models. Students produce 3D prototypes, allowing them to experience the capabilities of the manufacturing process.
Specific skills mastered by Engineering Design Technology majors include the production of mechanical, architectural, electrical and civil drawings and the selection and design of architectural and mechanical systems, including plumbing, piping, and process equipment. The program covers piping layouts, piping and instrumentation diagrams, process pipe drafting, building information modeling, surveying, and 3-D residential design. Instruction includes 2-D commercial building design, 3-D plant layout, electronic schematics and 3-D commercial building design. In addition, the program utilizes internship agreements to give students on-the-job training while attending classes. This provides students with a higher success rate when they enter the workforce.
The goal of the Engineering Design Technology program is to prepare professional entry-level CAD technicians to apply technical skills while creating working drawings and models from a variety of software applications. Graduates of the Engineering Design Technology program may work with engineering and with designers in a wide variety of disciplines, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), piping design, machine tool design, and architectural design.
The Engineering Design Technology program is suitable for anyone desiring to enter the advanced manufacturing workforce or upgrade skills to improve earning capacity. The program offers flexible schedules and hybrid classes that are convenient for working individuals. Completion of the program will prepare students to become a design draftsman, tool designer, research assistant, engineering assistant, detailer, or a mechanical draftsman.
When production workers encounter problems with the machines they operate, they call industrial technicians. Industrial technicians install, replace and repair equipment in industrial settings. Students in these options are prepared for industrial maintenance and industrial technician positions.
Industrial electronics technicians set up and service the electronic equipment that controls machines and production processes in industries. As facilities update and invest in new equipment to boost productivity and improve product quality, they increasingly rely on IETs to properly install and align industrial control systems and machinery. Preventive maintenance on such equipment as digital and microprocessor-based systems, programmable controls, motor drive systems, power systems and robotics is important and necessary to prevent production delays.
Industrial maintenance technicians are expected to troubleshoot malfunctions and perform preventive maintenance and emergency fixes on structures, equipment and facilities, and may do some carpentry and electrical work. Maintenance technicians are responsible for ensuring quality and safe production by guaranteeing smooth operation of equipment, including motors, pneumatic tools, conveyor systems and production machines as outlined in operations manuals, manufacturer’s instructions and sketches.
Students in OCtech’s IET and IMT programs receive a well-rounded education. Hands-on experience in technical courses gives students practical knowledge and further emphasizes concepts presented in the classroom. Classes in oral and written communications, computer skills, mathematics and interpersonal skills are also part of the required curriculum.
Precision measurement is a very important part of any machining operation. And because tools and dies must meet strict specifications — precision to one ten-thousandth of an inch is common — the work of individuals in the machine tool field requires a high degree of patience and attention to detail. It is also essential that these professionals be mechanically inclined, able to work independently, and are capable of doing work that requires concentration and physical effort.
Machine Tool Technicians produce precision parts using machine tools such as lathes, drill presses, and milling machines. They are able to set up and operate a wide variety of machine tools and have a thorough understanding of the working properties of metals such as steel, cast iron, aluminum, and brass. Using their skill with machine tools and their knowledge of metals, Machine Tool Technicians plan and carry out the operations needed to make machined products that meet precise specifications.
Modern technology has changed the nature of the MTT’s work, with an increasing reliance on computer-aided design (CAD) to develop products and parts. Specifications from the CAD program are used to electronically develop drawings for the job. A computer-aided manufacturing program that calculates cutting tool paths and the sequence of operations then processes these drawings. Once these instructions are developed, computer-numerically-controlled machines (CNC) — machines that contain computer controllers that direct the machine’s operations and “read” the programs — perform the operations and run the machine tool mechanisms through the steps.
The introduction of CAD and CNC machines has enabled MTTs to be more productive and to produce parts with a level of precision that is not possible with traditional machining techniques. Because precise movements are recorded in the program, they allow this high level of precision to be consistently repeated. The CNC operation also allows several functions to be performed with one setup, reducing the need for additional, labor-intensive setups.
For those entering this field, a basic knowledge of computers and electronics is very important. OCtech’s Machine Tool Technology curriculum provides training in these areas as well as in computer numerical control operations. Courses in mathematics, communications (written and oral), blueprint reading and sketching, and economics are also included in this comprehensive two-year program.
Combining electronic, mechanical, robotics and information system technologies, Mechatronics Technology provides the graduate with the skill set needed for today’s automated manufacturing facilities. These skills will align with current needs of manufacturers, as well as align with one or more industrial standards/certifications. Instruction covers hydraulics and pneumatics, robotics and automated controls, programmable controllers, process control and mechanical applications. The student will receive practical hands-on experience and computer simulation on automated assembly line processes.
Mechatronics Technology students train on state-of-the art equipment, including control systems, electronic systems, computers and mechanical systems that integrate product design and automated manufacturing processes. The program includes internships and outreach activities designed to provide real-world experiences for students.
It also features a high school dual-credit Mechatronics pathway, an associate degree and certificates, and Industrial Engineering Technology transfer options to South Carolina State University.
The new role of administrative assistant is more than filing and answering the telephone. Administrative assistants are also in charge of maintaining the office’s efficiency by organizing meetings, tracking paper and electronic files, preparing research reports, and overseeing budgets. Planning and managerial skills are essential for today’s administrative assistant.
The Administrative Office Technology program prepares the student to meet the challenges presented in all levels of advanced organizations. Employers are seeking out assistants with high potential and critical thinking abilities. Employment is available in most industries, as well as online as a virtual assistant.
Skills essential in any office setting are part of the program:
Students planning to continue their studies at a four-year institution after completing this program will work with their advisors concerning transferability of credits.
Accreditation:
The Administrative Office Technology program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
In today’s highly competitive job market, an education that prepares students for work is more important than ever. The Business Administration curriculum is designed to be relevant to today’s working world. Students are prepared to fill entry-level positions in industry, restaurants, retail stores and service companies.
The Business Administration program prepares students in the functional areas of a business by incorporating techniques in planning, organizing, leading and controlling. If you choose to work for a business or start a business, the skills acquired in the Business Administration program will prepare you for success in a rapidly changing business environment. There is no limit to opportunities available to graduates with the right mix of leadership, organizational and teambuilding skills.
In the Business Administration program, you will:
• explore fundamental business, management, and accounting principles.
• learn to apply problem-solving strategies to real-life scenarios.
• analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats faced by companies today.
• implement basic financial planning techniques.
• learn the tools and techniques used in business operations that help owners or managers enhance their companies.
After completing selected business and management courses, students can specialize in either Accounting or Enterprise Management.
Individuals who want to continue their studies will also find options to transfer their credits to a four-year university, either through the general transfer curriculum or through agreements with other schools.
Accreditation:
The Business Administration program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
In today’s highly competitive job market, an education that prepares students for work is more important than ever. The Business Administration curriculum is designed to be relevant to today’s working world. Students are prepared to fill entry-level positions in industry, restaurants, retail stores and service companies.
The Business Administration program prepares students in the functional areas of a business by incorporating techniques in planning, organizing, leading and controlling. If you choose to work for a business or start a business, the skills acquired in the Business Administration program will prepare you for success in a rapidly changing business environment. There is no limit to opportunities available to graduates with the right mix of leadership, organizational and teambuilding skills.
In the Business Administration program, you will:
• explore fundamental business, management, and accounting principles.
• learn to apply problem-solving strategies to real-life scenarios.
• analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats faced by companies today.
• implement basic financial planning techniques.
• learn the tools and techniques used in business operations that help owners or managers enhance their companies.
After completing selected business and management courses, students can specialize in either Accounting or Enterprise Management.
Individuals who want to continue their studies will also find options to transfer their credits to a four-year university, either through the general transfer curriculum or through agreements with other schools.
Accreditation:
The Business Administration program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
The importance of professional automobile repair in today’s mobile society cannot be overstated. Because vehicles have skyrocketed in cost and are kept in service longer, there is a shortage of trained, knowledgeable technicians. Skilled technicians are needed to perform preventive maintenance, repairs and adjustments. Your decision to obtain either a certificate or Associate Degree in Automotive Technology will provide you with increased career opportunity and higher income.
Employment opportunities are best for automotive service technicians with strong communication, mathematical and analytical skills. For this reason, the Automotive Technology curriculum includes instruction in English, mathematics and human relations to supplement the in-depth studies of the automobile’s electrical, electronic, computer, mechanical, and hydraulic systems required in this associate degree program. Because the automotive service technician’s ability to diagnose the source of a problem quickly and accurately is of prime importance in this field, students will receive intense training in diagnosis of advanced vehicle systems including hybrid vehicle systems.
OCtech’s Automotive Technology is a five semester program with mini-sessions taught each semester. Classes combine operational theory with hands on lab activities for Engine Repair, Automatic Transmissions, Manual Transmission and Drive Train, Suspension and Steering, Brakes, Electrical and Electronic Systems, Heating and Air Conditioning, Engine Performance and Alternative Fuel Vehicles. These classes prepare students to pass ASE certification tests and begin a career as an automotive service technician.
Automotive service technician careers are attractive to many individuals because they afford the opportunity for good pay and the satisfaction of highly skilled work. In addition, most individuals who enter this occupation can expect steady work because changes in economic conditions normally have little effect on the automotive repair business. Job opportunities for an OCtech Automotive Technology graduate cover all areas of the automotive industry. Repair technicians, parts sales, dealerships, and specialty shops are just a few of the opportunities available.
If you’re ready to explore your possibilities for the future, choose OCtech’s Associate in Applied Science Automotive Technology degree.
Accreditation:
The OCtech Automotive Technology Program is accredited by the ASE Education Foundation.
Bachelor Degree Completion:
OCtech has approved articulation agreements in Organizational Leadership with:
• Columbia College
• USC’s Palmetto College