Electronic Instrumentation Technicians configure, program, calibrate, install and troubleshoot instruments that measure and control processes in automated and industrial environments. The process controlled systems maintained by these technicians are central to such production facilities as chemical plants, power plants, automotive and tire manufacturing, and many other automated control applications.
Other job responsibilities for these technicians include maintaining precision measuring instruments that record and control varying operating conditions. These conditions include vibration, temperature, humidity, pressure, flow, level, acceleration, pH, conductivity, and chemical makeup. Electronic Instrumentation Technicians select, install, and calibrate these instruments. In addition to these tasks, technicians also work with electrical and motor control systems. Technicians are also required to work with a variety of process control systems that require specialized programming, such as PLCs to optimize automatic and efficient operation.
Teamwork is very important in a career for an Instrumentation Technician. Good communication skills, both written and oral, are essential in the role of a Technician. Electronic Instrumentation Technicians must understand and apply electronic and electrical theory in their daily work activities; therefore, high school students interested in this field should take courses in mathematics and general physics.
OCtech is the only technical college in South Carolina that offers an associate degree in this field of engineering technology. The EIT curriculum has a co-op program established with multiple industry partners such as Dominion Energy and International Paper. Students who co-op during their Spring II semester will register for course EIT 240, Supervised Work Experience and will receive credit for EIT 220 and EIT 242.
Students planning to attend a four-year institution after graduation should consult with their advisors early in the program concerning transfer courses.
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:
- Identify and solve problems in electronics engineering technology industry across a wide range of application areas. (Technical Expertise)
- Emerge as successful and professional workers who work and communicate successfully in industry teams across the service area and beyond. (Professionalism, Teamwork, and Leadership)
- Enhance the economic well being of the community through technical expertise, critical thinking, and teamwork. (Economic Impact)
- Adapt to new and emerging technologies to keep current with electronics engineering technology practice. (Continuing Education)
Accrediting Agency:
Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET http://www.abet.org
