Wake Tech's Industrial Automation Technician Training is perfect for individuals looking to engage with companies that use automated processes and advanced manufacturing systems. If you have a knack for mechanical and electrical components or prior experience in the field, this program can enhance your skills and propel your career forward.
Industrial automation training focuses on equipping participants with the skills needed to operate, maintain and troubleshoot various systems that facilitate automation in industrial processes. The training encompasses a range of critical topics:
- Programmable logic controllers (PLCs), which are pivotal for controlling machinery and equipment
- Robotics, which involves the design and use of automated machines that can perform tasks traditionally done by humans
- Distributed control systems (DCS), which are used to monitor and control industrial processes across multiple locations
Through hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge, students gain a comprehensive understanding of how these technologies work together to enhance efficiency, safety and productivity in manufacturing and other industrial settings.
Industry-recognized credential: Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) micro-credentials
Complete in: Three to 12 months
Automation Technologist
The Automation Technologist pathway offers five 96-hour courses focused on specific, in-demand skill sets within Advanced Manufacturing. Courses can be completed within three months.
- Mechatronics Technician (MEC-3010Q1) – Pneumatics, PLCs and automation
- Mechanical Technician (MEC-3010P1) – Electrical, motor control, PLCs and automation
- Electrical Technician (MEC-3010O1) – Motor control, pneumatics, PLCs and automation
- Entry-Level Mechatronics Technician (MEC-3010R1) – Electrical, motor control, pneumatics and mechanical drives
- Robotics Programmer – Motor control, pneumatics, PLCs and automation
Foundations of Automation
Get a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of automation in modern manufacturing and industrial settings. These courses covers key concepts such as electrical and motor control, pneumatics, PLCs and robotics. Courses can be completed in eight months.
- Fundamentals of Electric Circuits & Motor Control (ATR-3115C1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-201 and C-202
- Introduction to Pneumatics & Pneumatics Troubleshooting (ATR-3115E1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-209 and C-304
- Introduction to PLCs & PLC Troubleshooting (MEC-3010M1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-207 and C-208
- Collaborative Robotics Technician Level 1 (MEC-3010K1)
PLC Technician
A PLC technician specializes in the installation, maintenance and repair of programmable logic controllers, which are compact computing devices designed to automate and control an array of machinery and systems. These sophisticated controllers play a crucial role in various industries, managing everything from the smooth operation of traffic lights that regulate urban flow to the precise movements of assembly line machines that drive manufacturing efficiency. Courses can be completed in three months.
- Introduction to PLCs & PLC Troubleshooting – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-207 and C-208
- Programming & Networking
Mechatronics Technician
Explore the fundamentals of mechatronics, which combines mechanical, electrical and software engineering to maintain automated systems. Through a blend of theoretical instruction and practical, hands-on experience in the Advanced Manufacturing Lab, participants engage with industry-standard tools and technologies. By the end of this training pathway, students will have a solid foundation in automation concepts, preparing them to enter the workforce or pursue advanced certifications in the field. This foundational knowledge will empower individuals to effectively engage with automated systems and enhance their career opportunities in the growing field of industrial automation. Courses can be completed in 12 months.
- Fundamentals of Electric Circuits & Motor Control (ATR-3115C1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-201 and C-202
- Electrical Schematics & Troubleshooting (ATR-3115F3)
- Introduction to Pneumatics & Pneumatics Troubleshooting (ATR-3115E1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-209 and C-304
- Mechanical Drive Systems (ATR-3115D1) – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-210 and C-301
- Introduction to PLCs & PLC Troubleshooting – Earn SACA micro-credentials C-207 and C-208
- Programming & Networking
- Automation Systems
Industrial Automation Technician Courses
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Introduction to PLCs and PLC Troubleshooting
Course Objectives
Start up and shut down a PLC system
Power up and perform a normal shutdown of a PLC system
Identify the parts of a PLC
Describe the basic operation of a programmable controller (PLC)
Describe the component functions of a PLC
Describe the operation of the PLC power supply circuit
Configure an Ethernet/IP Driver
Configure an Ethernet/IP Driver to permit PLC to PC communications
Describe the function of Ethernet/IP driver software
Transfer programs between a PLC and a PC via point-to-point Ethernet
Connect and configure a point-to-point PLC Ethernet network
Download a PLC project from a PC via point-to-point Ethernet
Upload a PLC project to a PC via point-to-point Ethernet
Describe the basic operation of a point-to-point Ethernet network
Describe the Ethernet IP address system for point-to-point
Describe the basic operation of PLC programming software
Connect and configure a point-to-point PLC serial network
Download a PLC project from a PC via point-to-point USB serial
Upload a PLC project to a PC via point-to-point USB serial
Describe the basic operation of USB serial communications
Describe the USB configuration using PLC programming software
Change PLC operation mode to "Run" or "Program"
Monitor PLC status using I/O indicators and software
Describe the functions of PLC operation modes
Connect and configure a human machine interface (HMI) panel with Ethernet network
Download a project to an HMI panel via an Ethernet network
Operate a basic HMI panel project with Ethernet network
Describe the operation of an HMI panel
Transfer programs between a PLC and a PC via USB serial
Operate and monitor a PLC
Connect, configure and operate an HMI panel with Ethernet
Describe basic functions of an HMI panel project
Configure PLC discrete I/O
Identify a discrete I/O terminal given a tag
Describe the memory organization of a typical PLC
Describe types of discrete PLC I/O modules
Describe how discrete I/O devices are interfaced to a PLC
Describe the format of PLC instruction and I/O addresses
Interpret a tag
Interpret a basic PLC ladder logic program
Interpret a basic PLC I/O diagram
Interpret a basic PLC power diagram
Design and test a basic PLC ladder program
Describe the operation of basic PLC logic instructions: normally-open, normally-closed, output coil, internal coils, timers and up/down counters
Describe the symbolic, absolute discrete I/O address system
Create a PLC project
Enter and operate a PLC logic program
Edit a PLC project
Describe the elements of a PLC project
Configure PLC discrete I/O
Program and operate a basic PLC logic program
Create a PLC project
Program and operate a PLC logic program that uses comparison instructions
Interpret a PLC logic program that uses comparison instructions
Enter and operate a PLC logic program that uses comparison instructions
Interpret the operation of a PLC logic program that uses comparison instructions
Describe the operation of PLC comparison instructions
Interpret a PLC logic program that uses basic math instructions: add, subtract, multiply and divide
Enter and operate a PLC program that uses basic math instructions
Interpret a PLC logic program that uses a "Compute" instruction
Enter and operate a PLC program that uses a "Compute" instruction
Design and test a PLC program that uses math instructions
Describe the operation and applications of basic PLC math instructions
Describe the operation and applications of PLC "Compute" instruction
Interpret the operation of PLC motor control sequence program
Design and test the operation of a PLC motor control sequence program
Describe the operation of a seal-in logic program
Describe the operation of a PLC-controlled motor control circuit
Describe the operation of a reversing motor control
Interpret the operation of an event-driven two-step PLC sequence program
Interpret the operation of a time-driven two-step PLC sequence program
Design and test a basic event-driven PLC sequence program
Design and test a time-driven PLC sequence program
Describe the operation of an event-driven PLC sequence program
Describe the operation of a time-driven PLC sequence program
Use status and diagnostic indicators to troubleshoot a PLC
Describe two levels of troubleshooting and give an application of each
Describe types of PLC faults
Troubleshoot PLC inputs and outputs
Force on a PLC output
Troubleshoot PLC inputs and outputs
Describe the function/applications of forcing outputs
Describe types of input/output module and field device faults
Describe methods of troubleshooting inputs and outputs
Troubleshoot PLC power distribution system
Troubleshoot power distribution faults
Describe the operation of a PLC power distribution system
Describe types of power distribution faults
Describe methods of troubleshooting power distribution faults
Troubleshoot a PLC processor
Describe types of processor faults
Describe methods of troubleshooting processor faults
Troubleshoot a PLC system with discrete I/O
Describe methods of systems troubleshooting
Describe a six-step PLC systems troubleshooting process
Interpret the operation of a multi-step, event-driven PLC sequence program
Interpret the operation of a multi-step, time-driven PLC sequence program
Design and test a multi-step PLC sequence program
Describe the operation of multi-step, event-driven and time-driven PLC sequence programs
Describe types of PLC documentation: truth table and sequence of operation
Describe how to interpret a multi-step PLC sequence program
Troubleshoot a multi-step PLC sequence program with event-driven and time-driven steps
Describe how to troubleshoot PLC sequence programs
Outline of Instruction
PLC Workplace Safety
Demonstrate proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with PLC systems. Students show how to apply PPE in various PLC troubleshooting scenarios and understand under what circumstances each type is required.
Safety Procedures in PLC Operations
Demonstrate the use of tools and equipment specific to PLC installation and maintenance. Students display proper lifting methods for heavy PLC hardware and components. Demonstrate the use of checklists prior to operating or troubleshooting PLC equipment. Students generate PLC-specific safety checklists.
PLC Ladder Logic Programming
Learn the fundamentals of creating logic using PLC ladder diagrams. Students practice designing and interpreting ladder logic programs used in PLCs for various control applications.
Electrical Concepts in PLC Systems
Review basic electrical safety in the context of PLC systems. Demonstrate how to use a digital volt/ohmmeter (VOM) to read resistance, continuity, voltage and current in PLC circuits. Students wire simple series and parallel control circuits connected to PLC inputs and outputs and verify their proper function.
Introduction to PLC Hardware and Software
Students identify common PLC hardware components and describe the function of each. Students practice programming using relay ladder logic. Students review PLC safety procedures, wire a PLC system, verify inputs and outputs, load pre-written code and confirm system functionality. They then make simple modifications to existing code, save changes, download to the PLC and verify the updated function.
PLC Control of Pneumatic Systems
Review pneumatic safety with a focus on PLC-controlled pneumatic systems. Students build a pneumatic circuit integrated with a PLC, verify the inputs and outputs and ensure the system operates as intended.
PLC Applications in Industrial Automation
Describe how PLCs are utilized in industrial automation processes, including material handling systems, material identification systems and manufacturing execution systems. Students explore PLC integration with robotic components such as servomotors, robotic arms, end effectors, grippers and encoders. They demonstrate methods for axis control using PLC programming and describe various types of end effectors and grippers and their applications.
PLC Integration with Sensors
Describe various types of sensors used in PLC systems and their applications and limitations. Students demonstrate the use of sensors within a PLC-controlled robotic system, including implementing emergency stop functions and safety interlocks to halt robot motion in emergencies.
Interfacing PLCs with Robotic Systems
Identify the terminology used in specifying safeguarding systems for PLC-controlled robots. Distinguish between pneumatic and electric drives as controlled by PLCs. Demonstrate and have students perform lockout/tagout procedures on PLC and robotic equipment. Review relevant safety guidelines and standards for PLC and robotic system integration.
Advanced PLC Programming and Troubleshooting
Students demonstrate a basic understanding of advanced PLC programming methods, using teach pendants in "teach mode" to program PLC-controlled robotic systems. Students practice "walk-through" and "lead-through" programming techniques and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of online versus offline PLC programming. They describe the role of PLCs in computer-integrated manufacturing, identify common coordinate systems used in PLC-controlled robotics and distinguish between different types of program codes. Finally, students explain the importance of maintaining current backups of all PLC programs and configurations to aid in troubleshooting and system recovery.
Contact Hours
132
CEUs
No
Industry Standard, State or National Certification
Certification
Smart Automation Certification Alliance (Programmable Controller Systems 1 (C-207) and Programmable Controller Troubleshooting (C-208))
Website
saca.org
Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements
PLC workplace safety, safety procedures in PLC operations, PLC ladder logic programming, electrical concepts in PLC systems, introduction to PLC hardware and software, PLC control of pneumatic systems, PLC applications in industrial automation, PLC integration with sensors, interfacing PLCs with robotic systems and advanced PLC programming and troubleshooting
CE or CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
High School Graduate or GED; at least 18 years of age; reading level of 10th grade or higher. Basic math and general computer skills.
Learning Supplies Needed
PLCs, Programmable Devices (laptops)
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Advanced Manufacturing Center
Requirements for Successful Completion
90% attendance
Completion of all modules with a minimum score of 75% for each module
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
N/A
Intended Audience
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Controls Technician, and/or Tech Level I, II, or III
Wake County Need for Industry Positions
This is a skills gap area for light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on skilled
robotics operators to keep manufacturing systems operating.
Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment
Controls Technician
Controls Technician Level I
Controls Technician Level II
Controls Technician Level III
No active courses available at this time.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
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for MEC-3010M1-Introduction to PLCs and PLC Troubleshooting
.
Mechatronics Technician
Course Objectives
Gain an understanding of pneumatic circuits and how to troubleshoot pneumatic systems
Learn PLC architecture
Operate PLCs and program subroutines and sequencing events
Learn to troubleshoot PLCs and return them to proper function
Develop foundational knowledge in how robotics systems are integrated into automated manufacturing environments
Learn basic robotics operation principles and programming techniques
Outline of Instruction
Pneumatics Power Systems
Introduction to pneumatics and safety, pneumatic power, circuit connections, cylinder circuits
Pneumatic Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting concepts, in-circuit pneumatic component testing and troubleshooting trainer practice
Introduction to PLCs
PLC architecture, data communications, industrial networks, Ethernet TCP/IP operations, PC-PLC connections, network addressing, RSLinx communications and configure IP addresses
PLC Operation
Basic operation, program operations, memory organization, counters, timers, subroutines, event sequencing, program analysis
PLC Troubleshooting
Programming languages, processor troubleshooting, systems troubleshooting techniques
Introduction to Robots
Basic robot/cobot systems, controllers, applications, mechanical units, battery systems, jogging, 6-axis robot operation, configuration and program validation
Contact Hours
96
CEUs
No
Industry Standard, State or National Certification
Certification
SACA Certified Industry 4.0 Associate
Website
saca.org
Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements
Basic operations, advanced operations, robot system operations, IIoT, networking and data analysis
CE or CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
None.
Learning Supplies Needed
Student guides; PLC and pneumatics trainers, Robotics Systems training panels and associated tools and equipment.
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Advanced Manufacturing Center; 8 Fanuc ER-4iA industrial robots.
Requirements for Successful Completion
90% attendance
Completion of all assigned tasks and evaluations with a score of 70% or higher
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
N/A
Intended Audience
Anyone seeking to gain foundational knowledge in how PLCs and robotics are used in automated manufacturing facilities and/or gain employment as a technician in an automated manufacturing facility.
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Mechatronics Technician; Maintenance Technician; Robotics Technician; Automation Technician
Wake County Need for Industry Positions
This is a skills gap area for light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on skilled technicians to keep manufacturing systems operating.
Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment
Mechatronics Technician
Maintenance Technician
Mechatronics Operator
Robotics Technician
Automation Technician
No active courses available at this time.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech’s Notify Me service
for MEC-3010Q1-Mechatronics Technician
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Mechanical Technician
Course Objectives
Learn the components of electrical circuits and series
Understand how to correctly measure electrical output and draw
Understand different transformer types and their applications
Learn ladder logic fundamentals
Demonstrate how ladder logic is used to program and operate robots/cobots
Develop a working knowledge of how robots/cobots are controlled, programmed and used in automated manufacturing environments
Outline of Instruction
Electrical Circuits & Systems
Fundamentals of electricity, electrical safety and lockout/tagout, electrical components and input/output devices
Electrical Measurements
Voltage measurement, current measurement, resistance measurement and series/parallel circuits
Transformers
Introduction, sizing and types
Ladder Logic
Diagram basics and logic elements
Introduction to PLCs
Introduction to PLC architecture, data communications, industrial networks, Ethernet TCP/IP operations, PC-PLC connections, network addressing, RSLinx communications and configuring IP addresses
PLC Operation
Basic operation, program operations, memory organization, counters, timers, subroutines, event sequencing and program analysis
Introduction to Robots
Basic robot/cobot systems, controllers, applications, mechanical units, battery systems, jogging, 6-axis robot operation, configuration and program validation
Contact Hours
96
CEUs
No
Industry Standard, State or National Certification
Certification
SACA Certified Industry 4.0 Associate
Website
saca.org
Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements
Basic operations, advanced operations, robot system operations, IIoT, networking and data analysis
CE or CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
None
Learning Supplies Needed
Student guides, Collaborative Robots, robotics systems training panels, electrical circuit training panels, and associated tools and equipment.
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Advanced Manufacturing Center; 8 Fanuc ER-4iA industrial robots.
Requirements for Successful Completion
90% attendance
Completion of all assigned tasks and evaluations with a score of 70% or higher
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
N/A
Intended Audience
Anyone seeking to gain foundational knowledge in how mechanical systems, electrical systems, PLCs, and robotics are used in automated manufacturing facilities and/or gain employment as a technician in an automated manufacturing facility.
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Mechanical Technician; Mechatronics Technician
Wake County Need for Industry Positions
This is a skills gap area for light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on skilled technicians to keep manufacturing systems operating.
Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment
Mechanical Technician
Mechatronics Technician
No active courses available at this time.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech’s Notify Me service
for MEC-3010P1-Mechanical Technician
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Electrical Technician
Course Objectives
Learn three-phase power in the context of automated manufacturing systems
Develop an understanding of how pneumatic systems work and how to troubleshoot those systems
Integrate an understanding of ladder logic into pneumatically operated manufacturing systems
Set up PLCs to control robotic systems and communicate to multiple devices
Describe various types of robotic systems and how they are employed in automated manufacturing environments
Employ PLC programs to control robotic systems
Outline of Instruction
Introduction to Motor Control
Three-phase power, electrical safety, protective devices, three-phase motors
Ladder Logic
Diagram basics and logic elements
Pneumatic Power Systems
Introduction to pneumatics and safety, pneumatic power, circuit connections and cylinder circuits
Basic Pneumatic Circuits
Flow control valves, speed control, DCV applications and pneumatic maintenance
Introduction to PLCs
Introduction to PLC architecture, data communications, industrial networks, Ethernet TCP/IP operations, PC-PLC connections, network addressing, RSLinx communications and configure IP addresses
PLC Operation
Basic operation, program operations, memory organization, counters, timers, subroutines, event sequencing and program analysis
Introduction to Robots
Basic robot/cobot systems, controllers, applications, mechanical units, battery systems, jogging, 6-axis robot operation, configuration and program validation
Contact Hours
96
CEUs
No
Industry Standard, State or National Certification
Certification
SACA Certified Industry 4.0 Associate
Website
saca.org
Certification Learning Outcomes/Requirements
Basic operations, advanced operations, robot system operations, IIoT, networking and data analysis
CE or CU Articulation
No
Prerequisites
None.
Learning Supplies Needed
Student guides, collaborative robots, pneumatics trainers, robotics systems training panels, PLC trainers, and associated tools and equipment.
Clinical Site/Special Facilities
Advanced Manufacturing Center; 8 Fanuc ER-4iA industrial robots.
Requirements for Successful Completion
90% attendance
Completion of all assigned tasks and evaluations with a score of 70% or higher
Accreditation/Special Approval Requirements
N/A
Intended Audience
Anyone seeking to gain foundational knowledge in how PLCs and robotics are used in automated manufacturing facilities and/or gain employment as a technician in an automated manufacturing facility.
Specific Industry or Business Support Needs
Electrical Technician; Mechanical Technician; Automation Technician; Maintenance Technician
Wake County Need for Industry Positions
This is a skills gap area for light manufacturing in Wake County that is dependent on skilled technicians to keep manufacturing systems operating.
Industry or Job Titles Related to Training Outcomes for Employment
Electrical Technician
Mechanical Technician
Automation Technician
Maintenance Technician
No active courses available at this time.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech’s Notify Me service
for MEC-3010O1-Electrical Technician
.
No active courses available at this time.
To be notified when this course becomes available, please use
Wake Tech’s Notify Me service
for
.
